“Modesty, judgment and loyalty are traits hard to find in politicians these days. How refreshing therefore to return to Taft, the president who personified all those virtues. With this magisterial biography, Walter Stahr does more than suggest that Taft deserves a far higher rank among presidents. He proves it.”
—Amity Shlaes, New York Times bestselling author of Coolidge

“This superb biography of our most judicial president and presidential chief justice argues that Taft’s ‘modest personal virtues’ and principled devotion to defending the U.S. Constitution made him one of the most underrated and significant public servants in American history.”
—Jeffrey Rosen, New York Times bestselling author of The Pursuit of Happiness

“Colorful and elegantly written, Stahr’s biography resonates with today’s radical-vs-centrist political battles.”
—Publishers Weekly

“Engaging, fast-paced, informative, and inspiring, this first full-scale biography of the only American to serve as both president and chief justice draws on newly discovered sources to bring Taft to life as a humble, caring human being who trouble shot for Teddy Roosevelt, kept the U.S. out of war, greatly strengthened the federal judiciary, and championed the rule of law.”
—Bob Taft, former Governor of Ohio and great-grandson of William Howard Taft

“This highly researched and exceptionally written biography paints a brilliant picture of the life of a selfless public servant.”
—Library Journal (Starred Review)

“Readers left and right, blue and red, will find this extraordinary life a great refreshment and a brilliant signpost to a better way.”
—Christopher Cox, author of Woodrow Wilson and former Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security

“A strong case for elevating an overlooked president closer to the ranks of greatness.”
—Kirkus Reviews