The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream (Vintage) Reviews

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The Audacity of Hope is Barack Obama's call for a new kind of politics—a politics that builds upon those shared understandings that pull us together as Americans. Lucid in his vision of America's place in the world, refreshingly candid about his family life and his time in the Senate, Obama here sets out his political convictions and inspires us to trust in the dogged optimism that has long defined us and that is our best hope going forward.

Barack Obama's first book, Dreams from My Father, was a compelling and moving memoir focusing on personal issues of race, identity, and community. With his second book The Audacity of Hope, Obama engages themes raised in his keynote speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, shares personal views on faith and values and offers a vision of the future that involves repairing a "political process that is broken" and restoring a government that has fallen out of touch with the people. We had the opportunity to ask Senator Obama a few questions about writing, reading, and politics--see his responses below. --Daphne Durham

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20 Second Interview: A Few Words with Barack Obama

Q: How did writing a book that you knew would be read so closely by so many compare to writing your first book, when few people knew who you were?
A: In many ways, Dreams from My Father was harder to write. At that point, I wasn't even sure that I could write a book. And writing the first book really was a process of self-discovery, since it touched on my family and my childhood in a much more intimate way. On the other hand, writing The Audacity of Hope paralleled the work that I do every day--trying to give shape to all the issues that we face as a country, and providing my own personal stamp on them.

Q: What is your writing process like? You have such a busy schedule, how did you find time to write?
A: I'm a night owl, so I usually wrote at night after my Senate day was over, and after my family was asleep--from 9:30 p.m. or so until 1 a.m. I would work off an outline--certain themes or stories that I wanted to tell--and get them down in longhand on a yellow pad. Then I'd edit while typing in what I'd written.

Q: If readers are to come away from The Audacity of Hope with one action item (a New Year's Resolution for 2007, perhaps?), what should it be?
A: Get involved in an issue that you're passionate about. It almost doesn’t matter what it is--improving the school system, developing strategies to wean ourselves off foreign oil, expanding health care for kids. We give too much of our power away, to the professional politicians, to the lobbyists, to cynicism. And our democracy suffers as a result.

Q: You're known for being able to work with people across ideological lines. Is that possible in today's polarized Washington?
A: It is possible. There are a lot of well-meaning people in both political parties. Unfortunately, the political culture tends to emphasize conflict, the media emphasizes conflict, and the structure of our campaigns rewards the negative. I write about these obstacles in chapter 4 of my book, "Politics." When you focus on solving problems instead of scoring political points, and emphasize common sense over ideology, you'd be surprised what can be accomplished. It also helps if you're willing to give other people credit--something politicians have a hard time doing sometimes.

Customer Reviews

A conservative reviews Senator Obama's latest book .... By A2VN986E5KR1NV on 2006-10-18 All too often here on Amazon, we review only those books and authors with which we totally agree...or totally disagree...and give little regard to the quality of the actual contents of the book. And then, our fellow Amazon viewers come along and rate our reviews strictly on the basis of their own partisan biases. This is not very helpful. I set out to read and review Senator Barack Obama's latest book, not because I agree with everything he has to say, but because in some ways, I had respected him because he seemed to be a thoughtful and eloquent American with a compelling story. I give the book 4 stars for style and significance in our culture, but much less for substance. The Senator has a generally warm and inviting style of communicating that portrays himself as an agent of change in American politics. In terms of writing style, THE AUDACITY OF HOPE is a good, though sometimes "preachy" read; at times, it seems a bit too earnest or striving for political correctness. Obama deserves credit for being able to discuss his values and faith in a manner that is more comfortable than many of his political contemporaries. And, in the book, he does a reasonable job of articulating why and how his faith and values cause him to think and act in the way that he does. At times, the reader may wonder if he is too ambitious - or even naive. One can respect his energy and commitment to change, even as one firmly disagrees with his policies and plans. And, I certainly do take issue with some of the Senator's actual policies and worldview that he discusses. His health care plans may sound noble, but they would likely lead to significantly decreased quality and choice for most Americans and soaring taxes and budget deficits...big government at its worst. Furthermore, given the overall poor performance of government in other programs, do you really want government managing your health care? Another issue: while I do believe there is strong evidence to suggest a warming in the earth's climate, Senator Obama and I would disagree on the primary causes and "cures" for this warming. I don't believe that cutting taxes for those who pay taxes (aka "the rich") is unfair; I may go so far as to say that Obama's affinity for radical and government-forced redistribution of wealth reeks of socialism (though it's socialism masked by a warm smile). Another point: I don't believe that a "pro-choice" position offers adequate choice for the unborn child; Obama's rhetoric in the book is moderate, but his voting record on abortion is extreme. Some of his associations are troubling, particularly with some radicals who seem to have shaped a significant portion of his worldview and helped launch his career. I do agree with Senator Obama that America must overcome our addiction to foreign oil, though his opposition to many reasonable remedies is curious. I do agree that more emphasis needs to be placed on strengthening families and upholding traditional values; on reducing teen pregnancy and the root causes of poverty. However, it is difficult to align many of Obama's expressed ideas here with the numerous radical and ridiculous statements of Obama's pastor, Rev. Jeremiah Wright - a man who preached one sermon that inspired the title of this book. Senator Obama's stated efforts to transcend partisanship are laudable, but it would be helpful if he acknowledged that partisanship is not only the province of "right wing Republicans" but also a staple of many of his Democratic brethren. In the meantime, whether one is a "conservative" or a "liberal," there is much to gain in terms of insight into one of the most significant individuals on the American political stage today by reading this book. A prelude to the White House By AV88U381NT5N2 on 2006-10-19 Barack Obama's latest book reads like a hopeful springboard to the Presidency; indeed, the only concern he's voiced recently about a run for the White House is what his family might have to endure. Other than that, he sure looks and sounds like a confirmed candidate, and The Audacity of Hope only fuels that speculation. Obama is my senator. I honestly can't tell you what he's accomplished for Illinois. Nothing particularly major or memorable- given his short tenure- but that's not to say he hasn't been successful; everyone in Washington seems to want him on this or that committee, and that's certainly good for Illinois. The more powerful and influential your senator, the more attention (and money) flows to your state. His voting record is what you might expect from a young freshman Democrat, but that's not a knock; he's been true to his word, and that's a plus. He tries hard in Audacity to show he would be a builder of bridges and a healer of political wounds, and that might be true; time will tell. He's spot-on in the section titled Politics when he bemoans what modern politicking has become- far less about the issues than about how inherently evil your opponent is. Mudslinging has replaced party platforms as the main election tool, with orchestrated outrage and assertions of moral superiority at the top of the campaign agenda. Obama's call to return some integrity to politics by offering solutions rather than automatic fear and hatred of the other side is both timely and refreshing. It would be easy to argue that the polarization of the political right and left is complete and irreversible, but that's both the Audacity and Hope of the book's title. What's not so convincing in Audacity is his portrayal of himself as a political Everyman. While he clearly demonstrates genuine empathy for those who don't share his beliefs, the middle ground he tries to capture seems more like quicksand- when you try too hard to be everything to everyone, you run the risk of being nothing instead, a perpetual question mark without a solid base to stand on. That's a risk he's obviously willing to take, but the centrist policies he then suggests are not only nothing new, they carry their own considerable risks and problems which he barely weighs. That's a concern, a surprise, and a shortcoming. Good, effective politicians are like a good stew- there's substance in the pot, and it's well seasoned. While Obama clearly has the substance, the seasoning simply isn't there yet, which makes the Audacity in the title fitting in a way Obama hadn't intended. Americans sure are enamored of fresh, unknown faces in politics- maybe because we love Cinderella stories- but that's voting with your heart rather than your head. Now there's something to be said for intuition and "gut feeling" when selecting leadership, but when the fresh face is untested in so many ways, perhaps it would be best to go with the proven commodity- even if it isn't all that exciting- rather than the raw recruit, no matter how intelligent or charismatic he (or she) might be. Charisma is great, but experience counts for so much more, especially in the troubled, difficult times ahead. All that said, Audacity of Hope is an interesting look into the mind and heart of a young senator as he formulates his early political policies and tests the political waters. -Mark Wakely, author of An Audience for Einstein Which American Dream By A1Q6NPDQ4OEKBX on 2007-02-18 This review is probably one which is going to be slammed, because Senator Obama has such appeal for so many looking for fresh new hope and they will take the questions raised as more than a higher reaching for answers. Politicians since John Kennedy have "written" books to prove they are intelligent and introduce themselves to the voting world. Senator Obama's first book dealt with the touching subject of his childhood. The problem is he left out much of his Islamic past and his life started at age 10 along with fictional names of people in his life. As an author, everyone knows it is impossible to get a book published and yet a college graduate not only has a book published but is signed to a million dollar deal before he soon arises in Illinois and is immediately asked on David Letterman, "When are you running for President?", when he had not served one day in the Senate. It is those things which begs to ask in this book, "What kind of American Dream", does Senator Obama foresee for all Americans? The majority of us are not going to be graced with million dollar contracts when we have not accomplished a single thing in life. As stated, books are telling in swaying people. A book about childhood and one about dreams. We can all aspire to that, but what Barak Obama writes is not in line with dreams but a reality which if put in plain English might not sound so appealing. Would it sound appealing if someone said, "Someone is going to come in and take from your bank account 50% of your wages and it will take you until June to pay that bill off and you can then worry about paying your mortgages, sending kids to school and medical insurance." That logically would not sound so good. Yet Senator Obama in reality advocates the continuance of this "dream" upon Americans and in his own words on the now campaign trail wants more of people's money to fund "dreams" for people who are not working for them or citizens of the United States. Dreams are wonderful things as are books as long as someone who is empowered by the Oval Office or Congress does not have rights to legally steal what you have worked for and give it to someone else. So for questions, I would have preferred instead of softballs ones which asked how does someone get wonderful book deals? How does someone arise to meteoric power and be booked on Letterman to be asked when they are running for President, since over 299 million Americans are not? How does Senator Obama's dream equate with the literal American Dream our founding fathers sat down of a Republic where government had no power to tax your income which allowed you the citizen freedom to prosper and not have to have license or law inflicted upon every moment of your life? Senator Barak Hussein Obama, (he neglects to inform readers that is his real name also), dream is one of socialism and huge government. If that is what America desires then that is exactly what Americans have voted for in the current Republispenders who with Democrats have run up trillions of dollar in debt while inflation ruins each of us. If you want to read a real book on American Dreams, then I earnestly suggest The Strenuous Life by Theodore Roosevelt or Capitalism and Freedom by Milton Friedman. Those books equate dreams which gave all Americans including Senator Obama the reality of the best place on earth to live. There is nothing audacious about socialism and hiding behind one's borders. This book is more in tune with the French Dream which like all Europe is a disaster in socialism. Thank you for your time. It feels like the pot calling the kettle black (no pun intended) By A95HEW0CE173 on 2007-01-19 Well written, but it feels like there is nothing new presented about politics. If you are from the left side of the spectrum, you will find yourself nodding in agreement with Senator Obama's views, and if you hail from the right side, you will likely be shaking your head throughout most of the book. There is a lot of apparent chastisement of political parties in general, but the author specifically cites examples from the republican party. Though I hail from the left, I got frustrated that he would present an argument that would seem like common sense, talk about how we need to centralize our political system, and then rip the republican side apart... doing just the opposite of what he says we need to stop doing! By the end of the book, it felt more like a political stunt to discredit republicans and get ready for the White House than a book about changing the country. Ironically, I felt more sympathy towards republicans than I felt at the beginning of the book. A nice subtitle to the book would have been "The Audacity of Hope: Why the Republican Party Is Supremely Evil and Powerhungry". A little less ripping on the republicans and following his own advice to politicians would have netted 4 or 5 stars. I couldn't bear to finish this book By AX7UTR0NTR4ON on 2007-03-09 I was hoping to find reason to vote for Senator Obama, and made a game try to get through the book. What made it so hard to read? Misconstrued, incomplete ideas wrapped in "feelings"? I felt better when I put the book in the bottom of my trash barrel to save others from it. But I felt worse when I worried that it might appeal to them. propaganda By A1AMOT7PONW9V6 on 2006-12-20 I just finished reading this book today. It seems to me that the book lacks any real subject matter that you can lean on to say "hey, this Obama stands for ____". The book basically hits the standard fix-the-world topics, but delves into very few of them. This is a great strategy to get Obama'a face out in the view of the masses, but I do not recommend this book. Disappointing... By A2JXU3DQ71K628 on 2007-02-16 Spoken like a true politician. Barack Obama offers no real solutions to government problems in this book. Instead of thinking like a Washington outsider, Obama sounds like a well seasoned Washington politician. It's amazing that his book is so popular since its the same thing thats been offered before just in a new and updated package. What a waste... Breathe into this paper bag, people By A3L25C6C0L47XX on 2006-10-27 Senator Obama is handsome, he's smart, he's charasmatic, he's this, and yes, he's that. You know what? I'm handsome, smart, and charasmatic, but no one is touting me for president. This guy is a dyed in the wool liberal, but at least he's honest about it. Compared to Illinois's other senator who is an opportunistic chameleon whose tack to the left corresponds in lock step with his ascendency in his party, at least with Obama you know what you're getting. I'm grown quite tired of all the hype around this guy. Sure, he's smart and he might be the only immovable object in the path of the irresistable force of that other junior senator, the one from New York. But point to ONE thing he's done (besides pen no less than two memoirs within a couple of years of each other--imagine being in your forties and having compiled two memoirs!). Name one piece of legislation with his name on it. He's non partisan you say? Show me one vote in the senate where he's broken ranks with the democratic caucas. I'll hang up and listen to your answer. Aha, just what I thought. A credit to his race..... the human race By A3JX8YZV9E1Y84 on 2006-11-10 I chose this title, "A credit to his race.....the human race," because it is what Jimmy Cannon, the legendary sports writer said about Joe Louis, perhaps America's greatest boxer of the 20th century. I found reading this book to be a breadth of fresh air. The man is passionate, interesting, speaks to the heart, and is effective. As politicians go, it's a pleasure to see Obama has a future because he certainly has a NOW. I come from the other side of the political divide from the Senator, and that's why I find a man like this refreshing. I am not an ideologue, and find such people terribly boring. When they appear in the room, I leave the room regardless of what side of the aisle they come from. Obama is different than the normal breed of politician out there. There use to be a time when a life in government was a way of giving back to the country part of what the country allowed you to create for yourself. You never went in government to make a buck, but it's become obvious that for many politicians, government is a way for them to earn their fortunes, and it's off the people's back. There was a time when corruption was in the back rooms, and out of the way. The people always knew it was there, but it was not in your face. My, how things have changed. When you read this book, you find the thoughts of a reflective American based on his own life experiences. It is predicated on the belief that there are some things that GOVERNMENT CAN DO EFFECTIVELY, AND WELL, and this Senator would like to do just that. This is a man who just might be President of the United States some day. I don't know about 2008, because by then Obama may not have had enough time to become seasoned, to have been around the block long enough to have a natural grasp of the issues by simply being there. If you have ever been in the thick of a Presidential campaign, and you were to hitch a ride with the candidate on his plane, there is something that becomes very clear, very quickly. It's a question as to whether the candidate is competent or not. There are maybe 500 political opinion makers in this country who count. They are the writers, the television personalities, the pundits, and the editors. These 500 men and women always pass judgment on whoever is running for President. If they smell incompetence, they bury you. An example is John Edwards in the last election cycle. I like Edwards, he had a lot of star quality, and that means a lot in the world of politics. He just didn't cut it on the competency issue, and the group of 500 burned him during the campaign. Obama needs time to become seasoned. I just hope it doesn't mean he will give up his spirit, that wonderful quality that is the driving force of someone who is going to make it big in politics. He also has a natural base that will stand by him. African Americans make up 25% of the Democratic vote in this country. It is natural to assume that Obama should get at least half his natural base, which gives him 12 to 13%. He's got to pick up at least 7 to 8% of the remaining Caucasian (politically correct, for the red necks from Georgia reading this, I'm talking about the white vote). This means Obama should have at least 20% in the very early primaries. With 6,7,8 candidates in the running initially including Hillary, it comes down to Mrs. Clinton better watch out. If this all sounds rather callous and crude, I am telling you what happens when you sit down in that room, and start talking POWER, because with the power goes the MONEY. My sense is Obama will make the run because we now live in an age where you just can't think 2 elections out. Obama may not be Mr. Right, but he certainly is Mr. Right Now. In 2012, he could be yesterday's noise. Look at Al Gore who may have won in 2000. You can't count a vote that close in Florida, and John Kerry who lost by 85,000 votes in Ohio. Both men have less chance than a one legged, blind man with no teeth running in 2008, yet both deserve a second opportunity. When you read this book, you will be blown away. The Senator for years taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago, and it doesn't get any better than that. Let me let you in on a secret. If you want to know if someone knows a subject find out if he can teach it, and this man can teach law. What I look for in a book like this is an author who can challenge me. Can he get me to re-examine the philosophy on which I have based my whole life. If he can do that, than it's a book I cherish. Obama has succeeded in challenging my political philosophy, and I truly appreciate it. He talks about his own understanding of the Constitution. Why he believes this beautiful document is a "Living" document, and not a "Static" document. He discusses different justices, and their understanding of the law, and it's a beautiful narrative. Listen to the flow of his language on just one page, "We say we value the legacy we leave the next generation, and then saddle that generation with mountains of debt. We say we believe in equal opportunity but then stand idle while millions of American children languish in poverty. We insist that we value family, but then structure our economy and organize our lives so as to ensure that our families get less and less of our time." This is a beautiful man, with a heart, and a story to tell, and perhaps, just perhaps one day he will go for the dream, and then the promise will be fulfilled. Richard Stoyeck not interested By A1TKSA0S3MPXKJ on 2006-10-29 I am African-American and have been reading these same storiesmy whole life. Just give me a something different please!!! Audacity of Boredom By A17VPT7287V93M on 2007-08-01 I was so disappointed in this book. I was prepared to be wowed and instead I was bored. The pedantic style and monotone narrative was a big turn off for me. Hope is not a viable strategy By A340CJW6N7RYBD on 2007-11-09 Let me first state that I like Barack Obama. I've even contributed to his Presidential campaign, not easy for one who lives on Social Insecurity. I am also a raging liberal who started life as an "America-right-or-wrong" conservative but who was so radicalized by a tour in Vietnam that on my return, except for the crazed excess of Lenin and Stalin, I would have proudly joined the Communist Party. Nevertheless, I'm saddened to report that "The Audacity of Hope" is so boring as to make one pray for the gift of blindness. In my life, I've read from cover-to-cover with relish books most would describe as crushingly boring, such as "Being And Nothingness" by Jean-Paul Sarte and "The Database Relational Model" by E.F. Codd. "The Audacity of Hope" is the only book I've tried reading that I've been unable to finish. It is world class insipid, an Inane Literature Hall of Fame slam dunk, a book that deserves its own entry in "Ripley's Believe It Or Not" for its ability to induce comatose sleep, a book that should have a chapter devoted to it's mind-scrambling white noise in the American Psychiatric Association's "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders." I still like Obama and hope this book was ghost-written. If not...mere words fail me. If you admire Barack Obama, don't read this book. Try instead to promote the idea that it was written by a different Barack Obama. More of the same. By A1E988I023SF71 on 2007-01-02 More idealistic, idiotic blathering. Wants to increase PROGRAMS( Please people whenever you see that word realize that great expense and failure is coming!)that have not worked, cost enormous amounts of money, will never work due to the nature of programs and have lead to this nations decline. Social programs don't work due to the fact that they are impersonal and require no responsibility on the part of the recipient and therefore there is no gratitude on the part of the recipient and engenders a sense of entitlement. Of course we have not learned from history therefore we will continue to make the same mistakes. People are so easily wooed by well-meaning but misguided politicians like Mr. Obama. They are like pied-pipers. People are entranced and follow along. Why? Because it SOUNDS SO GOOD. We get all righteous and do goody when we hear the pipers flowery words. They sound good but they are actually immoral. They always end up hurting the people they were designed to help and usually does so for many generations. Warning! Warning! Obama for president! Disaster waits. The only problem is the realization of the disasters of some presidents sometimes takes decades to realize. You have been warned. Impending disaster. Making all his Nowhere Plans for Nobdy By A2HII4U9WQ0XUV on 2007-02-01 Look, here's the True Audacity: 1)America, once a hardscrabble hard-drinking, hard-wh!ring, frontier take everything you can and cuss the Devil in his teeth kind of Land---once upon a time it bred Statesmen. 2) How? How can Wildness, Anarchy Incarnate, breed a Diplomat? Because Statesmen, when they rise to the occasion, are not Temperature-Takers or Clock-Watchers or Order-Takers. They don't hold their little finger tepidly in the wind, tremulous lest the slightest tremor in the latest poll by the latest Paper of Ill Repute shift this way or that and bring their tottering kingdom down about their ears. They are Eccentrics. 3) This Age is not about Eccentrics, or Statesmen, or Men of Big Visions and Brawling Blood: it is about Sure Things & Safe Bets, and fearful of a whole crypt of skeletons come a-crawling out of the closet we prefer our candidates nice. Nice. Boring. Safe. 4) And so we have Barack Husein Obama: the consummate Nowhere Man of the New Republic of Mediocracy. He is the great White Hope---or perhaps we should spin it Cafe-Au-Lait Hope---of Democratic strategists currently spreading out their campaign maps in dimly-lit War Room bunkers deep beneath K-Street in DC---because he is Odorless, Colorless, & Tasteless. Like Carbon Dioxide. The maddening thing about "reading" 'Audacity of Hope' is that it reads like a campaign pamphlet, pure filler---no dangerous thoughts, no boiling sentiments, nothing, you feel, as a critical reader, that hasn't been spot-checked and double-triple-signed-off & approved by the campaign fact-checkers & censors. Nothing that hasn't been sanitized for your protection (and Obama's, or rather, shall we say, The Candidate). Why does this man want the White House so badly? And to what end? And yet he is, evidently, Campaign Gold, with a single speech able to knock our modern-time Lady Macbeth off her skull throne. No record, presumably few skeletons (other than the hoax (?) that claimed he was educated in a madrassah), able to leap gigantic Platitudes with a single bound---in a word, the consummate politician. I'll say now that I think America doesn't need Barack Hussein Obama. It doesn't need glib, self-serving creatures who keep their finger to the wind, read tea leaves in Gallup polls, and tailor their opinions accordingly. Depending on what we do and say and think and act in the next 5 years, we might leave a Democratic Republic to our grandchildren---or we might leave an irradiated, splintered, brutal wasteland. It is a time for Men---not Nowhere Men. JSG Obama Wraps His Personal Journey Around His Political Beliefs With Refreshing Authenticity By A13E0ARAXI6KJW on 2006-10-20 As the acknowledged rising star of the Democratic Party, Barack Obama has done an admirable job in maintaining the precarious balance between being a media lightning rod and a largely unproven senator out to establish his record. While it may speak to the current vacuity in the party's leadership, Hillary Clinton aside, Obama certainly cannot be underestimated for the political acumen he has displayed during key high-attention moments like his keynote speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. He wrote an insightful personal memoir over a decade ago before entering politics, "Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance", which I read a couple of years back and thought was quite lucidly written if rather guarded in exploring his racial dichotomy. What came across in his first book was a unique voice, and even though he sticks primarily to politics this time out, his voice remains consistent, at least on the written page, and that's what makes this such a magnetic read. He has a personable way of tackling topics as diverse as foreign policy, religious faith and the U.S. Constitution without the taint of pandering that media-hungry pundits and other politicians seem to enjoy. There is no denying that Obama is an instinctive consensus builder and that quality may have alienated those who label him a centrist. However, we understand the genesis of this commitment through his journey to reconcile his own racial identity. The irony is that in this book, the senator presents a series of policy statements that hold a clarity in purpose lacking among his Democratic brethren while concurrently replicating the successful Republican approach of linking political beliefs to values. The senator's topics are broad-based as noted by the chapter titles - Politics, Opportunity, Faith, Race - but he doesn't lose himself in polemics within the text. Take for example, the chapter entitled "The World Beyond Our Borders" where Obama intertwines the political history of Indonesia with his own childhood there. This provides a logical springboard to explaining his increasing awareness of U.S. foreign policy and once elected to the Senate, his first trip to Iraq which leads to a broader discussion of Bush's current Iraqi policies. All his chapters start with a personal journey that brings a grounded authenticity to his own policies rather than what could be perceived as naïve rhapsodizing of what our democratic process should ideally be. Just by reminding us of the value and relevance of the Constitution, Obama already has a jump on most of his colleagues in the Senate. Whether he is seriously considered Presidential material in 2008 (or more likely in 2012) or sinks under the weight of the media hype, this is a most worthwhile insight into Obama, a conscience-raising activist who is admittedly undergoing a gestational period as a political leader on a global scale. Finally, an enlightened leader By ALRMJJH4HPR3T on 2006-10-21 For any American citizen who is currently in resignation or despair over the abundant examples of unethical, immoral and abusive leaders who breed cynicism and apathy, The Audacity of Hope is a breath of much needed oxygen. Senator Obama may be considered "soft" by the media who enjoy taking down anyone who exhibits complexity of mind, paradoxical thinking and humanistic values, yet his writing inspires one to stop wallowing in helplessness and take an active role in our imperfect democracy. When Obama first spoke at the Democratic convention, Ann Deavere Smith wrote an op ed piece the next day saying that politics would never be the same because finally a leader spoke with a "unifying fusion" beyond partisanship, stereotypes and blame mongering. The senator's writing demonstrates that reflective, thoughtful consideration of apparent opposites is a leadership attribute needed urgently -- Obama speaks of the need to redefine power from its corrupt, controlling misuse as currently witnessed daily to an inclusive power that practices empathy, tolerance, and a reclaiming of core democratic values. Obama leaves the reader with a call to face our critical global issues by polishing the lens of our own perceptions rather than projecting and perpetuating fear and hatred. Whether he will be able to pass great legislation or run for president, this book provides inspiration to any leader who wants to demonstrate a capacity to connect with the hearts, minds and souls of generations seeking to be inspired and uplifted. He embodies the true sense of enlightened -"awake" not perfect--able to use his intelligence for the greater good while demonstrating the humility of one who knows his own shadows. A highly recommended read for all would be leaders. Can I give this a no star? By AFIBW90N2ET01 on 2006-10-31 Talk about audacity. My friend pushed this one on me and I Just couldn't finish it. Talk about drivel. Heaven help us if he gets annointed as "king" The Audacity of this Guy Taking Your Money By A3KEB6XRR9H9EB on 2007-01-01 This book is nothing more than an obvious attempt at riding the political fence. Obama has dozens of idealistic views such as empathy for all and health care for everyone -- yet no plans or even realisitic ideas as to the implication of these ideals. This book is 350+ pages of fluff and should be read by no one, it is clearly attempting to appeal to everyone while making no solid stance of its own, and is hence a complete waste of money and time. Pomposity of Title By A1ZT0NK9LFL4MO on 2006-12-25 What an empty book. I read it to see what the excitement was about. Obama is almost juvenile in his analysis of the situation - really a bad advert for affirmative action. Let's face it he would have not attended the well known schools he did, if it was not for his color. His chapter on air travel takes the biscuit. No critique of freebies for political figures; no discussion of the morality of accepting favors. My 16 year ciould do better. And with such an overblown title. The book and Obama's popularity is more a reflection of liberal America's desire to see a leftish black leader (after all Condoleeza is both black and a woman - but right wing) than respect for anyone with well thought out substance - the PC loathing of white men rather than meritocracy (As an aside to these libs you should protest by giving up anything invented by white men - including the Internet.) Nice try liberals, but Obama will not be president in your lifetime - a flatulent book - lots of wind so everyone notices - but lacking substance. It will quickly dissipate. So with Obama - a Roman Candle of a man. Audacity of vapour By A14GSPF2SWA51C on 2008-02-05 This book is, basically, a collection of feel-good platitudes. I didn't find any serious discussion or analysis of the causes of the current problems facing America. This is not surprising, giving the author's glaring ignorance in economics and history. The author ostensibly calls for a change, but if one actually thinks about how that change is going to be implemented, it is still the same old American Socialism. If you care for the truth, this one is not for you; on the other hand, I'd recommend it heartily if you feel threatened by the winds of change. Everything's going to be ok, really. We just need to believe really really hard that the nanny State will be nice. A Poorly Written, Failed Attempt at Insight By A2JQ3OFWOH6KX4 on 2006-12-13 Barack Hussein Obama's latest book "The Audacity of Hope" is a failed attempt at writing. In this book, Barack Hussein Obama claims that we need to "reclaim" the American dream. Yet all around us Americans are achieving their dreams. More Americans own homes than ever before and the economy is stronger than it ever has been. There hasn't been a terrorist attack on American soil in years, and Iraq is a free Democracy when just a few short years ago Iraqis were being gassed by the terrorist Saddam. Clearly we don't need to "reclaim" something that we already have. We are living the American dream thanks to pro-freedom policies enacted by great presidents like George W. Bush and Ronald Reagan. Now is a great time to be an American, and a poor time to be selling Americans lies about how miserable things are. Sorry Barack Hussein Obama, I don't need to reclaim the American dream - I'm already living the American dream. Barack Obama's "The Audacity of Hope" By A1RV41NUIS3HDI on 2008-04-10 If you want to learn how to write good political propaganda, take a look at this book to see how it should be done. This is a masterful propaganda piece. If you want to find out more about who Barack Obama is, read the Barack Obama book "Dreams from My Father" instead. I am rating this down because I wanted to find out more about who this guy is and I got something totally different. What a waste of time. If you want to learn about Obama's thoughts on popular political issues and see how he spins his position in order to pander to the masses and attempt to win their vote, read this book instead of the "Dreams from My Father" book. To his credit, whether or not you agree with his positions, the book is well written and Obama demonstrates a good understanding of the background of the issues he discusses. However, many of the "solutions" to the social issues he discusses are completely unworkable and unrealistic from a financial/economic perspective. I assume that he is not so stupid that he believes all of the things that he proposes and that he is merely presenting an idealistic message that he hopes the masses will eat up and that will get him elected. How Politics Should Work By AWLFVCT9128JV on 2008-11-04 "The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream" is Barack Obama's second book, and it is his personal view of the direction that the United States needs to move in terms of the type of politics we practice. It is not a look at whether one should be liberal or conservative--though he certainly does speak to the liberal positions better than the conservative ones; but rather about moving away from the divisive politics which have become the norm in recent years. The book is only nine chapters long, as Senator Obama goes into some depth of his thinking in a variety of areas. The first chapter, titled "Republicans and Democrats", covers the recent political history which he feels has led to the divisive nature of politics today. He discusses the difference between the last generation of politicians who could disagree with those in the other party, and yet still respect those people, as well as the institutions and the history of those institutions and offices. He links some of this to the common shared experience of World War II which united many of the members in armed services, and nearly all of them in terms of shared experience. I agree with this, but I think he leaves out several other key factors. The length of the election cycle now has political attacks happening nearly all the time. The fear which has often served to unite the country (civil war, World War I, depression, World War II, Cold War, and terrorism) has been tapped as a device to be used against the other political party (by both parties). The newer generation of politicians still has the common shared experiences of their lives, but they are much more aware of how to use fear (among other devices) to gain money and power. The advantage of reading this book during Obama's presidential run is that one can compare his words with his action. Most would agree that both McCain and Obama turn to the "fear" tactic less than most politicians. Both pledged to run different types of campaigns, and both have compromised on their principles in this area. The clip of McCain being booed by his own supporters for trying to quiet some of the critical comments which he and Governor Palin helped promote is one which will stay with me for a lifetime. Obama too has been much too negative on McCain, and attempting to use the fear of Bush to taint McCain. The second chapter "Values", covers what he feels are common values to all Americans, and which might help bridge the divide between the parties. This is an interesting chapter and it speaks to Obama's general tendency to try to unite rather than divide. The world often views Republicans and Democrats as largely the same, though certainly we see them as very different. This chapter helps provide the reader with the perspective that others view us, that of as being largely the same, with many shared values and hopes and dreams. The people who make up both parties love this country, the "truths" which were the foundation of our independence from England, and the Constitution and its amendments which form the framework of what our country is. Chapter three, "Our Constitution", is a closer look at the United States Constitution and how it can be used as common ground for moving forward. Also included in this chapter is a discussion of the senate and the filibuster, which became something of a controversy when the Republicans discussed eliminating it to achieve their goals during President George W. Bush's administration. Barack Obama also does an excellent job of discussing the issue of the Supreme Court and the differing positions on "original intent". Key to his argument is the fallacy that the original intent of the founding fathers can ever be determined, and key to that argument is the fact that the founders themselves disagreed about the intent before the ink was dry. Chapter four, "Politics" is about the institutional forces, such as the media and interest groups that seem to be pulling the sides even further apart. Issues become increasingly politicized, making rational debate and discussion difficult if not impossible. Perhaps one of the most interesting points he makes is that he benefited from mostly positive press coverage in his election to the Senate. While is opponents suffered from scandals hurting their image, he indicates that many people feel that he never faced real scrutiny. This perception has also followed him into the Presidential race, where several reports have shown that McCain has faced far more negative stories as a percentage than Obama has. These first four chapters are the core of the book and the foundation on which the last five chapters address from different perspectives. In each of these first four chapters Obama gives us some insight into his successful campaign for the U.S. Senate, as well as his other elections and how he navigated the rapids, sometimes more successfully than others. He also deals with what he feels are the dangers of continuing down the same path of divisiveness which the parties have been headed down since the end of the Cold War, though most of his focus is on the way the current administration has handled things since he came to the Senate in 2004. Chapter five, "Opportunity", is a look at his own opportunities as well as those of others. For himself, he looks at how the decisions he has made have either moved him away from his constituency, or closer to them. He looks at the use of private jets in both a positive and negative light. He talks about his meetings with groups as diverse as the founders of Google and the union-leaders who were about to see the jobs leave for overseas. The opportunities of others are focused on jobs, and he presents a short history of the private sector and discusses it in relation to the current climate. He does not pretend that globalization can (or should) be stopped, but he does push for a new "economic consensus" and the need for education. His views here have stayed consistent; though have become more defined, during his run for the Presidency. Chapter six, "Faith", looks at faith and its role in politics. Depending on your viewpoint, you may feel that he is giving the standard Democratic responses, or you may feel that he providing something new, at least in part. For myself, it is the latter view. He opens the chapter with a story about a doctor who is pro-life and who expresses his disappointment about the abortion view stated on Obama's web site, not because Obama is pro-choice, but because the statement portrayed all those who were pro-life as ideologues. The story is powerful, and Obama's response to it sets him apart from those who give the knee-jerk pro-choice response. Fundamentally, Obama recognizes that virtually everyone would like to see fewer abortions; i.e. that we all would like to see the conditions which result in a woman being forced to make such a choice reduced. There are many of us who are not ideologues for either the pro-choice or pro-life positions who would like to build on this common ground. That particular story has become somewhat famous, but this chapter has another story along the same lines, where Obama talks about how he had stated that his faith led him to the conclusion that marriage was between a man and woman, and those same-sex couples could have equal rights, but that it shouldn't be called marriage. He discusses how a young woman was offended by this, because by saying that it came from his faith, implied that he felt that same-sex couples were "bad people". Of course, Obama has not changed his view on whether same-sex marriage should be allowed, but one does wonder how that community views his position there, and if they still feel he is looking at them as "bad people". Chapter seven, "Race", is the one which I found the most interesting. One of the most important insights in this area, is his understanding that "white guilt has largely exhausted itself in America" and the implications that has for society and race relations. Also very interesting was his discussion of Mac Alexander, a black business man who was doing his best to restore his neighborhood, and his observations and experiences with regards to having jobs for young men from these areas. There is a perception in some areas that drug dealing is the occupation of choice, rather than necessity. His experiences in this area would seem to disprove that. He has no shortage of applicants for jobs starting at $8.00 per hour. This chapter also looks at the changing dynamics between Blacks and Latinos in the Chicago area. His discussion of the move from the war on poverty, to the anger over welfare is also very insightful and worth reading. Chapter eight, "The World beyond Our Borders", starts with a look at Indonesia, a country in which he spent some of his youth. He discusses the changes there, political, economic, and cultural and the change in attitude towards the U.S. and the west as well as the change in our perception of Indonesia. He uses this as an example to launch a more general discussion of the change in attitudes of the U.S. towards the rest of the world and vice-versa. This then moves into a discussion of the post-9/11 world, and what Obama feels the needs are for the United States to pursue globally. He talks about the need and the benefits to the United States to follow international law, and not act as if such laws are for everyone other than the United States. Chapter nine, "Family", focuses on family issues, and features stories both from Obama's childhood as well as the issues facing his family with Michelle and their two girls Malia and Sasha. He relates his issues with those facing most families, i.e. education, budget, time, and once again looks for areas of common ground on which to build. Many of these issues were touched upon in other areas of the book, as there is a tremendous amount of overlap between family, faith, and the other areas. Barack Obama does a very good job of using personal examples from his life and the lives of those he is close to and using them to highlight key issues which face many Americans. I like his approach of looking for common ground, and one can only hope that he should use that approach to governing should he be elected President. There is little doubt that conservatives will take issue with many of his approaches to dealing with the issues that American's face, but they may find that they have at least some agreement on the overall goals and respect for his approach. I preferred this book to his first one, as I feel his writing improved. It also contains a discussion of issues which face all of us. Mixed Feelings for the Work of a Seemingly-Genuine Junior Senator By A2YJ9DT9YZ0DUN on 2007-04-15 Because of all the hubbub about Senator Barack Obama and his (too) early presidential campaigning, I decided to borrow a copy of his new book from the local library. Although I had a preliminary notion that Mr. Obama would be more liberal than me, I came to the work with an open mind. In many ways, the text was very enjoyable to read because the author seems sincere and appears to stand fully behind his convictions on the role of government. In many places, I think that I agree with him even on policy issues (particularly in education). However, this agreement is linked to one of the two issues which tarnished the work for me. At one point in the text, Mr. Obama says that a cynical electorate is a self-centered one. In the final analysis, he probably hits the nail directly on the head. However, I think that he is a bit naïve in thinking that cynicism is nothing more than self-centered individualism. While I can agree with him on some policy issues, I think that the text is by far too supportive of where the government has come to at this point. A comment like this only affirms the fact that he is perhaps too pleased with "business as usual" or at least the reform thereof. It seems a bit undiscerning to me that he doesn't ask the question of "why" the electorate could be cynical and then figure out that revolution, not just evolution, is necessary in the contemporary political situation. Additionally, the text is peppered with relativistic though (in mild forms) throughout. However, this is not absolute, for Senator Obama does indeed claim to have a firm belief in the rule of law and the Constitution's special place in political history. I believe this claim to be sincere. Nonetheless, his condemnation of an electorate which has been made cynical of government (because of a government which is much to be blamed) as well as his relativistic tendencies taint the work without destroying it. I would give it a 3-3.5 / 5 and suggest it if you truly want to look a bit into Senator Obama. If you don't have a drive to do so, I would suggest staying away because the text can be a bit maudlin at times (and therefore can be boring if you haven't a personal drive to finish it). This is a very honest book written by a political star By AE31M52VLKOG6 on 2006-10-24 The life of a politician is very stressful according to Barack Obama, and I truly believe him. He is hopeful that America can be a place where all Americans can prosper, no matter what their dreams are. He is a father who loves to spend time with his wife and two daughters. His long legislative sessions sometimes force him to postpone vacations or miss a school function. Obama has been mistaken for a valet by white people outside of a restaurant. He has also been followed by security guards just because the color of his skin. Yet, he remains a politician who believes that all citizens can live in harmony regardless of their ethnic background. Barack's belief in partial birth abortion has drawn criticism and questions about his Christian faith from his former opponent in the Senate race Alan Keyes, nurses and newspaper writers. Barack grew up exposed to all different religions. By reading the Bible and the Koran as a child, he is a man with a respect for all religions. Obama supports many good ideas in my opinion. He supports affirmative action, a movement that gives all people from different minorities and individuals with disabilities equal opportunity in admissions to colleges and access to jobs in the work force. Obama believes that the United States government and political regardless of party, should strive to meet the needs of all citizens. Barack supports giving welfare benefits to legal immigrants and putting child locks on guns. Barack strongly believes that people who serve in public office should strive to perform their jobs with integrity. Obama believes that public servants should listen to the needs of the people they serve, and they be held accountable for personal involvement in scandals and mis use of tax payer money. Obama has made his share of mistakes along the way. He accidently pressed the wrong button and voted against a bill that protected children against sexual predators. He missed voting on an important bill about gun control, because he was on vacation. The Audacity of Hope is a honest inside look about how difficult the job of a politician really is. This book also gives the reader a clear picture of Barack's position on issues like values, family, politics and race. This book portrays Barack Obama as a very knowledgeable and compassionate person. He will make a fine President, because he listens to the needs of everyone. A liberal says "ouch" he stepped on my toes. By A358HQR08MTV0U on 2006-10-23 The Audacity of Hope by Senator Obama is a compelling arguement for reexamining how we view and respond to policy issues and political debate. Challenging us to leave our biases at the door before entering. The Senator does this in a manner similar to that of a pastor on sunday morning rebuking then showing and guilding us to a better way. An intellectual and insightful read with moments of hilarity (his decription of a bloggers response to Alan Keyes had me laughing out loud). I look forward to hearings more from him whether on the campaign trail or in the Senate. not about hope, about politics By A1BDT8OLVYDVTM on 2008-03-12 Okay, I wanted to read this book because of the recent campaigns...I thought it would help me clue in to the man himself. And it does, he is a genuine man with a lot of heartfelt motives. But to be honest, he's better at speeches. I closed this book before I finished the first chapter and stacked it away on a shelf. It would be great for a person who is completely aware of political agendas, history, current events. For me, no thrill here, none at all. A lot of name dropping, names I didn't have a clue about, and a lot of political ramble that truly went in one ear and out the other. So if politics is your thing then this is your book but, I prefer an interesting read. Can't waste my time in that one. Truly Audacious By AFZ2ABAHLDAZT on 2006-10-18 In a world where people struggle mentaly battered by all sorts information, problems, and pressure it is rare to expect true hope from a politician. Barak Obama eloquently delivers that hope in this book.Most of us want him to do more than write a book. We HOPE he would be our next Commander-in-chief. More Democrat Trash By on 2007-04-04 The liberals strike again! This book does nothing but attack the Republican and promote the socialist agenda. The last thing America needs is another big government pig like Obama or Hillary. GOP in 2008! A Return to Civility By A2VSJ2CBBK6P0R on 2006-12-16 Many of Obama's policy prescriptions are quite unremarkable. They are decidedly left-leaning, but not so left as to call him a leftist or a radical. What sets Obama's book apart and indeed himself apart from most other politicians is his ability to imbue civility and deliberation in his decision making procedure. His book is not an ideological rant, even though it is left-leaning, it is much more thoughtful and inquisitive. In many ways Obama's prescriptions are pragmatic and implementarian. He wants to solve social ills as most liberals do, but unlike many liberals he sees tangible results as a necessary prerequisite for the continuation of certain progressive policies. His insistence on deliberation and civility in discourse have been inappropriately been called disingenuous by his detractors. The one common strand that seems to link those who see Obama as insincere is there common adherence to some ideology, be it conservative or liberal. Surprisingly, or actually unsurprisingly, Obama's equanimity and sudden rise to fame has quietly unnerved liberal ideologues just as it much as it has conservative ideologues. This is because despite Obama's liberal tilt, he is not nearly as dangerous to conservatives as he is to ideologues. His insistence on thinking things through and acknowledging the complexities of modern life serve to strip the armor from ideologues of every color and creed. He message is a call to arms, but one that does not attack a group per se, rather it attacks dogmatic and ideological stagnation that plagues most anyone who becomes too complacent in their ways. I for one have found this message incredibly enlightening and uplifting.

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