Ben Rhodes is a distinguished writer whose work is deeply informed by his extensive experience in national security and foreign policy. His insights into global affairs are shaped by his years serving in high-level governmental roles, where he honed his skills in communication and strategic thinking. Rhodes masterfully weaves complex geopolitical issues into compelling narratives, offering readers a unique perspective on the intricacies of international relations. His writing is characterized by its clarity, depth, and ability to make challenging subjects accessible.
Ben Rhodes tells the full story of what it means to work alongside a radical leader; of how idealism can confront reality and survive; of how the White House really functions; and of what it is to have a partnership, and ultimately a friendship, with a historic president.
Ben Rhodes, who served as a foreign policy adviser and speechwriter for Barack Obama, presents a compelling memoir that captures the essence of the president he worked with—intelligent, amiable, and principled. This narrative is a coming-of-age story that transitions from idealism to realism, filled with anecdotes that illuminate rather than scandalize. Even Donald Trump is approached with a sense of horrified amazement rather than vitriol. Rhodes remains a charming and humble guide through an unprecedented presidency, managing to retain his idealism in a cynical political climate. His memoir stands out for its humane and honorable portrayal of events. Rhodes offers a unique perspective on Obama’s presidency, providing insight into the tightly sealed inner workings of the White House during those eight years. The book opens and closes with Obama’s reaction to the election of Donald Trump, while detailing significant world events in an intimate and engaging manner. Rhodes chronicles the evolution of Obama’s foreign policy decisions, reflecting on the challenges faced as idealism confronted harsh realities. This memoir is a captivating account of Rhodes's journey from an idealistic staffer to a close friend and advisor to the president, making it a riveting read for both cynics and believers alike. Insightful and moving, it serves as an essential record of a transformative era.
Why is democracy under threat in America and globally, and what actions can we take? A former White House aide and close confidant to President Barack Obama embarks on a personal journey to find answers. As Ben Rhodes assists Obama in transitioning to his next chapter in 2017, he observes the dismantling of their eight-year legacy. To grasp the situation in America, Rhodes looks beyond its borders, traveling to numerous countries over three years. He engages with politicians, activists, and dissidents facing the same nationalism and authoritarianism impacting the U.S. His experiences include witnessing the poisoning of a Russian opposition leader, the suppression of Hong Kong protesters, and America's near loss of democracy before it finds a second chance. Blending memoir and reporting, this work of discovery reveals how deeply America influences the world through its post-Cold War capitalism, post-9/11 nationalism, technological obsession, and the racism that fueled backlash against Obama. Rhodes learns from a diverse array of figures—ranging from Obama to rebels to emerging leaders—that confronting America's missteps is crucial in the ongoing fight for the ideals America represents, both domestically and globally.