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The read is fascinating and informative; something to add to a history that might perhaps be forgotten by the electronic media. This account is a well-written piece. Ted Sorensen does show a touch of loyalty, but he developed in an era where loyalty still mattered and he should be commended for his efforts.
Additionally, too much of the book is overly-pedantic including a holier-than-thou quasi-condemnation of Kennedy's extramarital affairs and a truly unreal series of self-aggrandizing comparisons on page 136 that assert Sorensen's role as a speech-writer amongst the likes of Seward, Twain and even Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln. Furthermore, I am constantly reminded of "The Talented Mr. By and large, this book was honestly a disappointment. While the notes on the Kennedy years are poignant and Sorensen is a gifted speechwriter and intellectual, I feel that this book overstates his importance. Ripley" throughout the entire book with regards to Sorensen's infatuation with, and sometimes exclusion from, Kennedy's life.Bottom Line: Skip the first 100 pages and take the rest with a grain of salt. There are some redeeming qualities to the book: Sorenson is undoubtedly a very intelligent man, he provides excellent insight into JFK's decision-making (equipped with interesting anecdotes) and, as another reader mentioned, offers an interesting commentary in part 3 of the book. However, this book can be discredited on the premise that it is overwrought with self-serving, egotistical drivel.I am already wary of books of this nature that claim 'fame by association.' The first 100 pages are entirely autobiographical and frankly not worth the read as they simply serve to depict Sorensen as a liberal.
For someone at his age to be as sharp and to produce a work of such value is amazing. That someone from such an obscure background could meld so wonderfully with a person who was virtually an American Prince says something great about America. That aside, this is a truly great book.
He is at his best up until the death of JFK where he makes you almost wonder if JFK's presidential election could have happened without Sorenson at his side. The book is well written clear and sharp. He deals openly with the Profiles In Courage Issue and settles that once and for all.
First let me say I am a conservative. The insights he gives are truly stunning. You will have trouble putting it down and it seems as though your living history when reading this book as you are with someone who created the Camelot Era.
His writing skills are obvious. I saw him on CSPAN Booktv in an interview and he was as sharp as anyone even at his age.
Highly recommended. Written by one of the most eloquent authors (Profiles in Courage and most of JFK's speeches)of all time, this book is a brilliant and candid memoir.
While Ted loved his hometown, Lincoln simply did not offer the kinds of opportunities he was looking for. John Fitzgerald Kennedy had been elected the 35th President of the United States in 1960 at the age of 43. It is compelling reading.Ted Sorensen was born in 1928 in the quintessential midwestern town of Lincoln, NE. Very highly recommended. Sorensen goes on to observe: "Kennedy believed that every voter was first and foremost an American, moved by appeals to service and the national interest not appeals to religious prejudice, material selfishness, or regional parochialism.
So he packed his bags and moved to Washington DC in 1951. It was a relationship that would continue until that dreadful day in Dallas in Novermber, 1963."Counselor: A Life At The Edge of History" offers some truly remarkable insights into both JFK the man and JFK the Senator and President. He studied law at the University of Nebraska and graduated in 1949. Sorensen soon found work with a federal agency and quickly began to make an impression on those he worked for and with.
I simply could not put it down. His parents were both well-educated liberals and imparted their philosophy on their young son. This was very apparent in the speeches that he delivered both in political campaigns and as President. "Counselor: A Life At The Edge of History" is Ted Sorensen's long-awaited memoir. It was a much different time in America.
As his most trusted friend and advisor Sorensen understood what JFK was all about. This is an extremely important addition to the historical record of this period.I must tell you that Ted Sorensen is without a doubt one of the finest wordsmiths I have ever come across. It was Sorensen who would be named Special Counselor to the President and who would have a birds-eye view of the historic events that would unfold during the thousand days of the Kennedy administration. One thing that stands out about JFK is that he tried to appeal to the better side of people. Years ago one of his colleagues remarked: "Ted Sorensen can use words that everybody can understand--intellectuals, milkmen, diplomats, politicians." I would certainly concur.
As the sun set on the 1950's a new day was dawning. As he cobbled together his new administration he was looking for individuals who shared his enthusiasm for the future and the endless possibilities that beckoned. It really was an exciting time. They truly were an inspiration to an entire generation of young Americans. As Sorensen writes: "Its tone should be positive, inspirational, hopeful and forward-looking--not an endless litany of negative complaints about past misdeeds or the status quo." I remember hearing some of those speeches as a youngster. Meanwhile, "Counselor" also describes in breathtaking detail some of the most crucial behind-the-scene moments in the Kennedy administration including the Bay of Pigs, the battle over Civil Rights and most notably the Cuban Missile Crisis.
A great read for history buffs and general interest readers alike. "Counselor: A Life At The Edge of History" is the best book I have read thus far this year.
It is not wonder why so many politicians sought his assistance in the years and decades following the Kennedy assassination. At the top of JFK's list was his right-hand man and trusted friend and advisor Ted Sorensen. Thus emerged exciting new volunteer opportunities like the Peace Corps and Vista.
Within a year he was hired by the newly elected Senator from Massachusetts John Fitzgerald Kennedy. This is easily the best book I have ever read about what went on inside the Kennedy administration by a man who should clearly know. He had no job and very little money.
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