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An excellent outdoors book by a former president
A book with interesting outdoor information much like a scout manual!Includes fun and informative information about the Carter family! I enjoyedit greatly!! ... Read more

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Hailed by Time magazine as "a fascinating . . . rich, energetic American story," this extraordinary biography will transform America's perception of Jimmy Carter.

Jimmy Carter left the White House in January 1981, defeated in his bid for reelection and rejected by the American public--but hardly broken. Outside the Oval Office, with a commitment rarely seen in an ex-president, he was more determined than ever to complete his life's mission: the achievement of world peace.

With unique access to the Carter archives and to the man himself, award-winning historian Douglas Brinkley brings us this unprecedented biography of the former President. Here are penetrating observations of Carter's complex relationships with such world figures as Mikhail Gorbachev, Deng Xiaoping, Margaret Thatcher, Fidel Castro, and Yasir Arafat, as well as his associations with the presidents who have succeeded him. Brinkley also reassesses the achievements of Carter's underrated White House tenure--the Camp David accords, Panama Canal treaties, and his championing of human rights. The Unfinished Presidency is the definitive portrait of this formidable world statesman.

--Brinkley is a regular commentator on NPR and his articles have appeared in the New York Times, Foreign Affairs, the Washington Post, the New Yorker, and Foreign Policy

"A thoroughly sourced intimate portrait of one of the country's most respected ex-presidents."--USA TodayAmazon.com Review
Jimmy Carter isn't the first American president to become more popularafter leaving the Oval Office than when he served in it; even Richard Nixonmanaged a semi-rehabilitation in the post-Watergate years. Yet perhaps noex-president has reversed his fortunes so completely as Carter, whoseapproval rating has done nothing but improve since he lost his 1980reelection bid. Many Americans admire Carter for his work building homes inthe United States with the group Habitat for Humanity, but the 39thpresident is known and respected throughout the world for attempting tonegotiate peace in trouble spots such as Haiti, North Korea, and the MiddleEast. "Carter," writes Douglas Brinkley, "has become a true citizen of theworld." Noteworthy sections of this unauthorized biography (which benefitsfrom lengthy interviews with its subject) include the story of how Carterworked relentlessly to undermine President Bush in the days leading up tothe Persian Gulf War, as well as Carter's difficult relations withPresident Clinton. Also, Brinkley appreciates, and treats seriously,Carter's religious faith in a way many previous analysts have not. Anexcellent portrait of a complicated man. --John J. Miller ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

If I had a hammer
I was reminded of Pete Seger's classic song while reading this book.Douglas Brinkley offers a fascinating examination into Jimmy Carter's post-presidential achievements, showing the many reasons why Carter should have long before been considered for a Nobel Peace Prize.The former president has been a tireless promoter of peace around the world, whether it is election-monitoring in Nicaragua, two-track diplomacy between Israel and Palestine, or fighting diseases in sub-Saharan Africa.The man had long been an international symbol of peace, extolling all the positive aspects of Christian goodwill, before finally earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.One is simply left awestruck by the width and breadth of his accomplishments through the Carter Center, Habitat for Humanity and many other organizations he either created or promoted in the 20+ years since he left office.

Brinkley takes Carter up to 1998, a time that offered much hope in finally establishing a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.The Middle East had long been Carter's most personal interest, having formed a heart-felt friendship with Anwar Sadat during the famous Camp David Accords.I was surprised to learn that it was Carter who made Arafat a player in the Peace Process, by reaching out to him and bringing him to the table when the first Bush administration had virtually ignored teh Palestinian leader.Clinton deserved a lot of credit for the lengthy peace talks between Israel and the Palestine Authority but it was Carter who did much of the groundwork in bringing these talks about.

The chapters revolve around specific achievements and Carter's relationships with the various presidential administrations that followed his.It was interesting to read that Carter established such a close bond with Gerald Ford, who joined him on numerous international projects and even a few domestic projects, although the two often didn't see eye to eye on political matters.Brinkley notes how Carter was never able to break through Reagan's teflon exterior, but had a good working relationship with the Bush administration until the fallout over the Persian Gulf War, which Carter refused to accept.He and Clinton managed to form a good working relationship despite the many differences in their personalities.Clinton stole a number of pages from the Carter playbook, relied on many of his same advisors, but ended up tripping over himself on many occasions because he refused to take Carter's advice.

Many view Carter's administration as a failure, but Brinkley notes the framework that was laid during that time, and how Jimmy Carter followed through on many of the initiatives he set in those four short years.Most impressive are his achievements in world health, spearheading efforts to rid the world of small pox, guineau worm and other maladies that needed his clout to get the money necessary for their eradication.Most important was Carter's political will, which seemed undaunted despite the setback he suffered in losing the 1980 election to his nemesis, Ronald Reagan.

I think anyone with an interest in Jimmy Carter will greatly appreciate this book as it puts his many accomplishments in perspective and illustrates how he earned the respect of many persons across political and international boundaries, even begrudging respect from such persons as George Bush, George Schultz and Henry Kissinger.You may not agree with everything Carter has done, but his integrity is unimpeachable.

Incredibly biased...
Only made it thru the first few chapters, but he describes Ford as someone who sent 18 men to their death for political gain. He describes Reagan as an unprincipled and deeply immoral man, and suggests the Cold War was won because Reagan followed Carter's policies. He largely endorses the idea that Reagan's team conspired with Iran to keep the hostages until Carter was out of office. He repeats without disclaimer Carter's claim that he could have won re-election if he had been willing to bomb Iran (apparently, we Americans are a bunch of bloodthirsty idiots who would have supported such an action).

Given Brinkley's unbridled venom for any Republican, it is going to be hard to believe any of the rest of the book.

---Edit: although I cannot change my star rating to 3, I found Brinkley's fawning reassuring - it meant the duplicitous and arrogant behavior of Carter perhaps unwittingly revealed in the book to be the result of Carter's nature and not biographer bias. If this is the sort of book an unabashed supporter of Carter writes, then one wonders what a truly unbiased account will someday say. Overall, the best of the books on Carter I've read so far - as my own review shows, Carter is difficult to view objectively.

Carter's post-presidency
This is a biography of Jimmy Carter from the time he lost the election to Ronald Reagan in 1980 to 1997. Brinkley attempts to show how Carter, though no longer a resident of the White House, took much of the Presidency with him in terms of what interested him and the power he still might wield in having an influence on world affairs. Carter got very involved in trying to help resolve conflicts around the world, from Panama and Haiti to North Korea and Bosnia. So focused on peace (and some might say the ever-elusive Nobel Peace Prize), Carter often could be a fly in the ointment of US policy, driving presidents (especially Clinton) up the wall. Carter is a micromanager, needing to know every detail. He is also a tireless worker, especially for what he perceives to be just causes. He has always put his faith above all other things, and might rank as the most decent public official Washington has seen in a long time, or can expect to see again. Brinkley is totally pro-Carter in all respects, though he is willing to point out how and where Carter got himself into trouble along the way. An interesting book about an interesting man.

A revealing portrait of an underrated man
Jimmy Carter is usually considered a mediocre president at best, totally incompetent at worst. Nothing could be further from the truth. This book lists his presidential successes and goes on to show how they led to his influential post-presidential activities. We now can see Jimmy Carter for what he truly is, a human rights champion and a shining example to us all.

Never count a good man out.
Regardless of how one feels about Jimmy Carter the fact is that he has become one of the most admired men in the United States and one of the most beloved Americans in the world.He left office after being voted out in a landslide and with some of the worst poll numbers in history.Now, his poll numbers are very high and any time a conservation turns to Carter someone will almost certainly say that they think Carter is the best ex-President we have ever had or the most moral man to have been in the White House in years and years.This turn around occurred in less than twenty years, and that the turn around occurred is a fact not open to question.The real question is; how and why did it happen?

That's the question Douglas Brinkley attempts to answer with this book.Brinkley basically starts with Carter's 1980 defeat and follows Carter's career for the next twenty years.On this journey the reader will meet Jimmy Carter the Baptist missionary, the Habitat carpenter, the lay physician out to heal the world, and the ex-President who refuses to profit from his former office but is at the same time a tireless fund raiser for his Carter Center.We also get to see the tireless diplomat who is willing to put himself in great personal danger to try and secure a peaceful resolution to conflicts around the world.This is truly a man who takes to heart his faith and the teachings of Jesus Christ.On the other hand we also see a somewhat darker side of the former peanut farmer.We see an ego as big as all outdoors, a tendency to grandstand, a self-righteous zealot, and a serious stubborn streak.The reader will also find a great clue in Carter's post presidency to the failure of his administration.The aforementioned faults of course did not help his presidential efforts but it may well have been his inability to prioritize that lead to his political downfall.It seems that Carter will give small details and events the same attention he gives to massive undertakings without taking into account the real importance of the event.One can easily see how a President with this trait would very quickly become bogged down and accomplish very little.

Brinkley does an excellent job of telling this remarkable story.He had access to both President and Mrs. Carter along with their papers and also did many interviews with their fellow workers and friends.Interestingly, many of the people who had worked with Carter on some of his projects critiqued some of the draft chapters and pointed out mistakes.Make no mistake, most of these people are Carter intimates but steadfast Republican James Baker is also among those who offered both insights and critiques.The writing style that is found in this book is generally easy to read although the narrative does seem to drag in places.The biggest fault I could find in this book is the printing.I read the paperback version and the printing is tiny.I suppose that in discussing Jimmy Carter, Biblical type print is understandable but it still hurts the eyes.Still, this book is well worth the effort so break out the bifocals and enjoy. ... Read more

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The book has no illustrations or index. Purchasers are entitled to a free trial membership in the General Books Club where they can select from more than a million books without charge. Subjects: Presidents; ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (2)

Hats Off to a Great Read
It's an inspiring, but ultimately dynamic true-to-life account--of how one woman really did make a difference in this world. Accomplishing this difference pre-internet era andbefore 'packaged candidate' times is what keeps the reader perpetually hooked.

An outsider in every sense of the term starting from her childhood, Bella Savitsky Abzug crusaded for her causes merely because it was the right thing to do. She was not expecting fame or fortune to come from this work, she saw injustice and wanted to correct it.

After admittance to the bar, she went down south to defend African Americans, motivated by that sense of fairness rather than money.

This work and other even caught the eye of Richard M. Nixon, placing her on his infamous 'enemies list', something which she undoubtedly took as an honor. Her being noticed by the system meant that the cages were being rattled and they knew their time was up. The only machine which she was a member of was her own. Throughout each battle, her devoted husband Martin was proud to have supported her, not at all ashamed to 'Bella's husband'.

One can only imagine what the outlets attacking Hillary for being a 'nutcracker' would have said about Bella. She too enjoyed being a wife and a mother. But she also transgresed established gender norms at seemingly every turn. Even when elected to public office, she did not quietly fall in line with what the rest of the Party electorate expected her to go along with.

It's definently a holiday gift item to inspire the women in our lives. But guys also wanting a solid example of what quality community organizing actually is need to get this book.

Powerful read
This is my first Amazon review.I felt I had to write a review for this wonderful book.On one hand, this is an inspiring account of the passion and vigor that catalyzed the civil rights and feminist movements in this country (in stark contrast to much of the hollow rhetoric these days).On the other, it is an entertaining and poignant portrayal of an incredibly complicated character in American history.The form of the book, something of a round table discussion between Abzug and those who knew her, helps the reader to get a sort of 360 degree history with multiple views of single events.It is a finely wrought and powerful portrayal of Abzug and of the history of our country.I hope particularly that young women (and men) will read it and be inspired. ... Read more

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"This story of Billy Carter, my father, is by no means adefinitive biography but more an account of his life.Some of it isanecdotal, told to me by his close friends, family members and mymother.The largest part of it, though, is my perception as one whowatched from the sidelines."It is the story of how the man, whom Ialready thought of as being bigger than life, dealt with sudden fameand fortune.How he went from being a blue-collar hero to a mediajoke.It is the story of one who achieved his dreams only to have ittaken away by forces beyond his control."It's also the story of aman who struggled through alcoholism, living in the shadow of abrother who became President of the United States, and intensescrutiny by the national media and several different governmentagencies, including the IRS, the FBI, and a special Senate committee."It is a story of how all these things changed the lives of everybodyaround him as, first, we helplessly watched him self-destruct, andthen, as we watched him bravely lick alcohol only to lose a valiantfight with cancer."And finally, it is the story of how I grew tohate him, then, though I still never understood him, to love him onceagain."

William 'Buddy" Carter is the son of Billy Carter and nephew ofPresident Jimmy Carter.He is the author of the novel The Search forSavin' Sam. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Kansas City Reviewer
Excellent book. Very well written and a pleasure to read.I hope Buddy Carter will take the time to write more about his historic family.This individual has a real talent!

Pittsburgh, PA Native
I only thought I had heard about Billy Carter.This is a wonderful book, written by a sensitive, loving son of a famous man.Buddy Carter is a thoughtful, intellegent author who gives an unvarnished account of his battle with and affection for his dad.I recommend this book to all of us who struggle to understand our relationship with our parents.Buddy Carter and his book are a gift.

A New Buddy Carter Fan
This is a magnificent book.It is often painful and yet also very funny.Buddy Carter's relationship with his father is reminicent of the struggle many children go through for approval, while striving for independence.I am buying copies of this wonderful story for family and friends.Buddy has not only told his story...he has told the father/son story of many, including me.This is a must read!

A reader from Columbus, Ohio
This is one of the best books I have ever read. Buddy Carter writes with a style that is poignant, funny and very touching.This tale of pain and forgiveness touched my soul and I will recommend it to everyone.BuddyCarter is quite a writer and I am sure BOTH of his parents are quite proudof the way he brought forth this wonderful family story.

touching and revealing
I could not put this book down, I think Tuesday's With Morrie was the last book I was so touched by. What a wonderful and revealing portrait of a complex and interesting man. I suppose because I grew up in the South I sorelated to this book...a wonderful tribute to a father I always say themost we can hope for our children forgive us... Buddy seems to have beenable to do just that...a loving tribute not only to Billy but Sybil aswell. ... Read more

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Dropping the Torch: Jimmy Carter, the Olympic Boycott, and the Cold War offers a diplomatic history of the 1980 Olympic boycott. Broad in its focus, it looks at events in Washington, D.C., as well as the opposition to the boycott and how this attempted embargo affected the athletic contests in Moscow. Jimmy Carter based his foreign policy on assumptions that had fundamental flaws and reflected a superficial familiarity with the Olympic movement. These basic mistakes led to a campaign that failed to meet its basic mission objectives but did manage to insult the Soviets just enough to destroy détente and restart the Cold War. The book also includes a military history of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, which provoked the boycott, and an examination of the boycott's impact four years later at the Los Angeles Olympics, where the Soviet Union retaliated with its own boycott. ... Read more

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The second in a series of inspiring, original programs from one of the most important voices of our time

Jimmy Carter's beloved bestsellers Living Faith, Sources of Strength and Our Endangered Values have established him as one of our nation's most trusted authorities on issues of faith and society. Today, the weekly Bible class he teaches at his home church in Plains, Georgia is attended by visitors from around the world, representing a wide range of faiths and denominations.

Sunday Mornings in Plains gives you the opportunity to share in this remarkable experience wherever you are. Each volume of this extraordinary audio series draws on an extensive archive of recordings to present a month-long sequence of President Carter's Bible classes. Listening to these live recordings, you'll hear the unscripted interaction and unexpected insights that make his classes so popular, as well as the anecdotes from President Carter's life and observations about world events that he infuses into his lessons.

Jimmy Carter has been teaching Sunday school ever since he was a young midshipman in Annapolis; in later years he conducted religious services on submarines on which he served, and even led the occasional class in Washington while he was president. For the last 25 years, President Carter has taught the adult Bible study at his church in Plains, where several hundred visitors join him each Sunday to understand the wisdom of the Bible and apply it to their lives.

Measuring Our Success presents the five classes President Carter taught in March 2003 on the Book of Mark. Exploring the miracles and aspirations of Jesus's early ministry, President Carter highlights elements of Jesus's message that speak to us today, including his challenge to religious leaders who "abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition" (Mark 7:8), and his revolutionary and inspiring vision of a loving God who doesn't measure our success by mortal or material standards.

Recorded at the time of the U.S. invasion of Iraq, these classes open with President Carter's comments on the eve and outset of the Iraq war, imbuing them with significant and lasting historical interest, and offering a dramatic and moving demonstration of the struggle to reconcile spiritual ideals with the challenges and conflicts of contemporary life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

5 CD Set - 5 Lessons on Gospel of Mark
It's pretty interesting to hear the former president give these lessons.Each lesson begins with Jimmy Carter talking about the state of the world at the time of the lesson, including events in his life, and the actual Bible lessons.Carter has been giving Bible studies since he was a midshipman at the Naval Academy.

These lessons are in front of a live audience in various churches.Interaction with the audience has mostly been edited out.Carter was completely at ease and engaging.At times he was very funny and made the crowd laugh. Naturally he makes efforts to relate the lessons from the Gospel of Mark to everyday life.

At the time of the lessons, the U.S. had begun the War in Iraq.Carter expresses his concern as he had considered this an unjust war, but he also expressed in solidarity with the country and his patriotism.At his age, he can say things in a more direct way than at earlier times in his political life.

Jimmy Carter also explains the work of the Carter center.The Carter center is quite active in many countries, advocating human rights and serving in many capacities for good causes.He provides some interesting stories of his travels and interactions with world leaders.

Carter's lessons on the Gospel of Mark were taken from a standardized lesson book, one adopted by his Southern Baptist church.I should point out that Carter sees commonalities between various denominations and he appeals to people across many spectrums.The Gospel of Mark turned out to be far more interesting than I imagined.I was unaware of some of the most significant aspects of this book.

Carter explained the early ministry of Jesus according to this book.Jesus recruited his disciples from the shores of Galilee and kept crossing this sea with his disciples.This is the lowest freshwater lake in the world and the second lowest lake in the world after the Dead Sea.The warm waters of the Sea of Galilee allow various flora and fauna to support plenty of fish life, thereby making extensive fishing possible.

The significance of Jesus crossing this Sea continuously in the early stages of his ministry is covered in the lessons.I didn't know about this and found it interesting.I think discovering the significance of these crossings is enough reason to get this audiobook.
... Read more

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"We are not alone in our worry about both the physical aspect of aging and the prejudice that exists toward the elderly, which is similar to racism or sexism. What makes it different is that the prejudice also exists among those of us who are either within this group or rapidly approaching it. When I have mentioned the title of this book to a few people, most of them responded, 'Virtues? What could possibly be good about growing old?' The most obvious answer, of course, is to consider the alternative to aging. But there are plenty of other good answers--many based on our personal experiences and observations. "
--from THE VIRTUES OF AGING
Amazon.com Review
When Jimmy Carter left the White House in 1981, he and hiswife, Rosalynn, had to face the same questions many elder Americansencounter when retirement approaches: "How could we accommodate theunpleasant circumstances that had been forced on us? What were ourassets and abilities? What were the dependable factors in a good life,and how could we recognize and develop them? Was it at all possiblefor us to be as satisfied in the future as we had been during some ofour most interesting, adventurous, and successful times? Did we haveanything much to offer in the years ahead?" In the years since, bothCarters have become internationally recognized for their work asauthors, teachers, and humanitarians, but as Carter amiably insists inThe Virtues of Aging, you don't need to be a former president(or first lady) to make a difference in your life and the lives ofothers. He urges older Americans to take charge of their lives--bystaying active, whether it's through volunteerism or indulgence inpersonal recreation; by relying on oneself as much as possible; bygetting involved with others; and by putting one's affairs in orderwith an honest self-awareness of the inevitability that even therichest, most rewarding life comes to a close. Like all the books inthe Library of Contemporary Thought series, this is a fairly shorttome, but it lives up to the best in the series--such as Pete Hamill'sNews Is a Verbor Seymour Hersh's Against AllEnemies--by presenting readers with something to ponder onjust about every page. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

INSPIRING
For a retired person like me, this book is really inspiring.It gives you many ideas as to what you can do after you don't do those "9-5" activities any more, either for yourself, your family or your community even the world. Mr. Carter has set an example.Yes, if he can, why can't you?

How to enjoy being an old kokker
Simple, plain, clear good advice enlived by personal example and story. This is agood book about aging wisely, retaining one's powers as best as one can through the senior years. Former President Carter involuntarily forced to retire at fifty- six faced a double - crisis , identity and financial. He almost lost the family land and farm, but was savedwhen his peanut holdings were bought by a large consortium. He and his wife Rosalyn became active in new ways, as university teachers, writers, volunteer builders of one home for a needy person each year.
The Carter recipe for enjoying old age involves remaining active, continuing to interact with others, exercising, avoiding the well- known evils of cigarettes and excess drinking.
Carter recognizes that not everyone has the prerogatives of a former President but he maintains that most of us have the resources to go on enjoying life in old age.
It seems to me Carter is a lot wiser in this work than he is in many of his political writings.
This is a good book and has valuable tips which should help towards graceful aging.

Another thought provoking book by Jimmy Carter
THE VIRTUES OF AGING by Jimmy Carter
February 25, 2006

Amazon Rating: ****



In THE VIRTUES OF AGING, President Jimmy Carter writes about what a senior citizen can do to feel fulfilled and productive in ones last stage of life. As usual, he is quite candid as he writes about his own life, his marriage to Rosalyn, and recounts stories about his family and friends. I always enjoy reading Carter's non-fiction, as he always has some interesting anecdotes, as well as some wisdom-filled stories that he passes on to his readers. Carter never preaches, and I for one appreciate it. In fact, in this particular book he admits (at the end) that he tried to refrain from quoting much from the bible, as he felt it would detract from the topic. But since the church is a big part of his life, he did talk about his own participation with his church and did quote a few times in appropriate places as he discussed issues on aging.

I have to admit I'm rather biased because I have always admired the work Jimmy Carter has done since his presidency. Knowing about the good works he's done in the past few decades, I do not find it difficult at all to see that he's also left his mark in his writings. He's shared with the world what he has learned through his own past experiences as a son, a father, and grandfather, as well as Governor and President of the United States. I'm slowly collecting all of his books and so far have enjoyed what I have read. THE VIRTUES OF AGING was not as structured as some of his other books have been, but I don't think it was meant to be. It is a collection of thoughts and ramblings of aging gracefully, from his point of view.

Perhaps he's aged too long
Jimmy Carter used to be my favorite ex-president. Now, it seems he has aged beyond the point at which he can reason clearly. He goes on Larry King to criticize a former colleague (Zell Miller) for standing in support of the President, AND writes a book, for which he will probably make millions of dollars, to do more of the same. He is using his roles as elder statesman (well-deserved) and Nobel Laureate (well-deserved) to undermine our country; but seems to have forgotten that he was impotent while our hostages were held in Iran for 444 days. You know the saying: "them what can't do, teach". If one of the virtues of aging is exploitation of public opinion for your own advantage (or that of your party), Jimmy Carter is VERY virtuous.

Fabulous Book!!
I'm in my mid-40's and found this book a facinating
look atolder age.Carter busts the old stereotypes
about sitting in the rocking chair during retirement age and mentions numerous examples of friends and associates in the 70's and 80's who are living enormously productive lives.This book
gives me hope for the future.Even though my last 45 years were probably a little easier than my next 45 will, I find solace in the many examples of warm relationships maintained, hobbies developed and new challenges in later life.A whole-hearted endorsement for this book.

Carter is my favorite former US President.

The book also gave me a great curiousity to look at more information on the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity.

Jeffrey McAndrew
broadcaster and author of "Our Brown-Eyed Boy"1 ... Read more

Product Description
In this wonderfully evocative volume, Jimmy Carter writes about the things that matter most, the simple relaxed days and nights that he has enjoyed with family and friends through the years and across the generations.

Here are lively, witty accounts of exploring the outdoors with his father and with black playmates; making furniture; painting; pursuing new adventures and going places with children, grandchildren, and friends; and sharing life with his wife, Rosalynn.

Sharing Good Times is an inspirational guide for anyone desiring to stretch mind and heart and to combine work and pleasure.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Love the President, hate his book
This wretched little book is like being trapped at a family reunion with your most boring relative.President Carter does share stories of good times, but he does so with a singular lack of storytelling ability.The chapters here mostly adhere to a chronological order, but that's about the only literary thing about them.President Carter just kind of lays out observations one after another, and not interesting ones either: "I had black friends when I was a kid.I like baseball.I like fly fishing.My wife used to do some sexy hula dancing.My grandkids like to ski in Aspen at a super-luxurious lodge.I climbed Kilimanjaro while other people were throwing up.I had lots of debt when I left the White House but we still took expensive vacations."In one particularly disgusting page, President Carter notes a trip to see mountain gorillas near the border of Rwanda, then he notes that many of the people who hosted him on that trip were murdered in the violence that followed, then he changes topics completely without delving for a second into what that means or how he feels or anything.And it only gets worse when he quotes a long section of his own "poetry" as he contemplates his hobby for collecting arrowheads.I know that, as a Christian Democrat, I'm supposed to love everything that President Carter does/writes/etc, but this book was a waste of money, even though I only spent a dollar at a used book store.I respect President Carter as a person and a dedicated public servant, but he simply lacks the ability to tell a story.Do not read this book.

Jimmy Carter and Sharing Good Times
Former President Carter is an amazing man. Besides all the work he does via the Carter Center, he takes time to write books about the things he thinks are imortant. This book is a reflection back across the life of a workaholic - Jimmy Carter. In it he talks about how he eventually learned to take time out to relax and have fun with friends and family - something we all should do. What a marvelous man!

Jimmy Carter's Good Times
They may have been good times for President Carter, but for many of us his administration brought painful inflation, 17% interest rates for houses, the great give away of the Panama Canal (bought and paid for with American taxes and lives), a failed rescue of the Iranian Hostages (he should have left this one to the experts, or at least to Ross Perot), and his total lack of leadership leaves little to compliment Jimmy's good times.I thought the book was shallow, devious, incomplete and a waste of time and money.

Admirable
Having the highest regard and respect for former President Jimmy Carter (in fact, world leaders should emulate his wisdom, style and ideals), I say the following very delicately.

Admirable in that former President Carter communicates to the world his inner and private feelings from childhood thru adulthood.The meaning of sharing with family, friends, total strangers, foreign dignitaries, etc. is the purpose of a contented existence.At first this did not come easy to President Carter, but as the years came and went it surfaced, and he was at peace with himself.

The redundant theme of the Carters gallivanting and vacationing all over the world could lead some to resentment for not being able to do the same(?). One must take into consideration though that President Carter would oftentimes combine work with pleasure (the presidency, Carter Center). In so doing, he was threading the common fabric which connects us all...conversation, diplomacy and kindness.
Overall, a warm and compassionate read on morals, values and hope.

Sharing Good Times
From our greatest living statesman come more pearls of wisdom.
A kind and thoughtful man, husband and father,Jimmy Carter shares insightful stories of his life with friends and family.Learn how love and trust can carry us through the tuff times and reward us in the golden years. ... Read more

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Presents a biography of the United States president, from his childhood in Georgia to his current activities with the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity, discussing important historical events that happened during his career. ... Read more

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Here is Jimmy Carter-man of faith and politics-as seen by two veteran newsmen, Pulitzer-Prize winner Howard Norton and former assistant new editor in Washington for The New York Times, Bob Slosser. ... Read more

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The massive inflation and oil crisis of the 1970s damaged Jimmy Carter's presidency. In Jimmy Carter's Economy, Carl Biven traces how the Carter administration developed and implemented economic policy amid multiple crises and explores how a combination of factors beyond the administration's control came to dictate a new paradigm of Democratic Party politics.

Jimmy Carter inherited a deeply troubled economy. Inflation had been on the rise since the Johnson years, and the oil crisis Carter faced was the second oil price shock of the decade. In addition, a decline in worker productivity and a rise in competition from Germany and Japan compounded the nation's economic problems. The resulting anti-inflation policy that was forced on Carter included controlling public spending, limiting the expansion of the welfare state, and postponing popular tax cuts. Moreover, according to Biven, Carter argued that the ambitious policies of the Great Society were no longer possible in an age of limits and that the Democratic Party must by economic necessity become more centrist. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

remember the last oil crisis?
Enough time has elapsed since Carter's administration that Biven can usefully analyse its economic consequences. Looking back, those were not great times. Sandwiched between two oil crises, Carter's people tried their best. But the narrative describes well the stagflation that gripped the US.

What is currently more interesting might be the discussion about oil usage in1979 and 80. The oil price rise then was proportionately worse than in recent years. Yet for readers who are old enough, the parallels between various conservation measures mooted then and now are instructive. So too might be the remembrance of what happened after the Carter years. When oil went into a 20+ year bear market. Even though its continuing rise seemed inevitable in 1980. Worth keeping in mind nowadays. Will today's prices keep moving up inexorably? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Look at Carter Presidency
I read this book for a graduate class in American history.Let me first say that I gave the book five stars for the information about the Carter Presidency, not as a comment on my approval or disapproval on the Presidency.Hargrove did an excellent job in doing the interviews and compiling the information.One gets the feeling that he was a fan of President Carter in this book.It is interesting to note that when Hargrove did his book on Presidential Leadership ten years later, he barely mentioned Carter.It seems his assessment of the Carter administration had changed.

Erwin Hargrove examines how the Carter presidency was organized, how Carter approached governance, and how he saw the problems and opportunities of the office of President. The book's analyses are based on oral history interviews with Carter and his advisors, which were facilitated by the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia and were held in twenty-one sessions between 1981 and 1982. Hargrove asserts that Carter's proclivity for problem-solving made him more concerned about issue leadership than organizational leadership or managing the decision-making process. In his final appraisal of Carter's leadership style, Hargrove concludes that Carter skillfully led the country during adverse conditions.

Hargrove illustrates that Carter's overall leadership style was collegial and comprehensive. In his collegial decision making, Carter preferred to place his trust in a small group of advisors and work through the issue, while remaining at the center of the decision. According to his Secretary of State, Cyrus Vance, "The President's manner of dealing with his senior officials was unpretentious and open minded. He listened carefully and wanted the fullest discussion before making decisions .... He emphasized the desire for a 'team spirit' among his advisors." (27). Carter preferred to surround himself with various opinions and overcome a given problem through detailed study. Therefore, he was tolerant of dissent among his advisors. Carter also strived for comprehensive solutions, preferring to fall back to his second-best choice rather than resort to incremental decision-making. For example, once Carter realized that it was politically infeasible to have a distinct Department of Education, he amended his initial desire by creating a more expanded Office of Education within the existing Department of Health, Education and Welfare.

Carter's preference for working toward understanding and for tackling complex problems can be attributed to his religious and engineering background and his time as a farmer and businessman. As a deeply religious man who was raised in the Southern Baptist tradition, he believed that his entrance into politics fulfilled a calling to solve complex moral problems. "He practiced humility, charity, forgiveness and tolerance as political virtues. He did not see the world as inherently evil and sought peace through understanding rather than confrontation" (8). As an engineer, he was predisposed to delving into the details and 'doing his homework' on the issue, often enabling him to
persuade powerful people through his knowledge of the facts. He also sought to solve problems, especially domestic issues, efficiently and equitably. As a farmer and businessman, he fundamentally identified with the small town communities and 'little people' but was able appeal to them without alienating the business community. Carter was socially liberal and fiscally conservative in his politics. He believed that his role was to strive for the public good, regardless of political support or party line. Therefore, he found it difficult to develop a constituency in either the Democratic or the Republican Party and, subsequently, to marshal support for his policies and programs. He believed that" ... he should do what was right and the political rewards would come" (17). His lack of political maneuvering proved to be a weakness. In fact, Hargrove notes that "[Carter's] friends did not think that he could have been reelected governor because his style of leadership had not created a coalition to support him" (164).

Since he preferred to attempt long-term solutions, he often pursued issues and policies that were not politically ripe. For example, Carter pursued a first energy initiative in 1977 before the fall of the Shah of Iran in 1979 increased gas prices and mobilized political support for a comprehensive energy bill. He rejected his staffers' advice about political timing, choosing to pursue the Panama Canal treaty, diplomatic recognition of China, and the mediation between Israel and Egypt at the same time. If he would have done a better job building Congressional support and public opinion, he may have brokered more deals and implemented more policy.

Hargrove seeks to discover why Carter's leadership garnered success in some policy areas, but failure in others. Some of the differences are attributable to the subject matter itself. Carter preferred foreign policy to that of economic policy because it afforded him greater opportunities to take bold steps and tackle tough moral issues. Ultimately, most policy initiatives succeeded or failed depending on how they suited Carter's leadership style. For example, the Camp David accords between Anwar Sadat of Egypt and Menachem Begin of Israel were successfully largely due to the friendship Carter forged with Sadat, the tenacity his displayed when working on the issue, and his central role as diplomat in the negotiation. The accords were the results of a situation that was well-matched to Carter's desire to solve a specific problem and manage the participants in the collegial negotiation. However, his welfare reform initiative failed because it required consensus of too many conflicting points of view and, therefore, did not lend itself to Carter's collegial decision-making style. Likewise, his economic policy resembled "zigzag pattern" (167), which Hargrove argues may have had as much to do with the patterns of inflation and recession as it did with Carter's leadership style of surrounding himself with diverse opinions and making the best decision given the information at that point in time.

The book is the second in a series of monographs compiled by the Miller Center. It is authored by a member of the interview panel and was published prior to the completion of the Carter Oral History project. The sources are oral histories of Carter, his cabinet staff, and his advisors, compiled through on-site interviews by a team of esteemed political scientists and academics. The use of first-person interviews and internal memos lends credibility and immediacy to the analysis, while the use of select secondary sources places the analysis within a broader context. The book begins with an extensive On the Series description, Foreward, and Preface that explain the genesis and methodology of the Carter Oral History project, notes limitations of the project, and introduces Carter's leadership style,. Two introductory chapters trace the influences on Carter's character and the development of his collegial, comprehensive style, noting that " .... he had a clear and strong conception of the kind of leader he wished to be as president, that his conception of leadership had been developed and tested to his satisfaction before he became president, and that the central elements in this conception of leadership were rooted in his personality" (13), Three middle chapters detail Carter's domestic, economic and foreign policy. A concluding chapter provides an appraisal of his style and if he optimized opportunities presented to him.

Hargrove's contribution to scholarship is an astute examination of Carter's leadership and policy-making style through the eyes of people who knew him well. Hargrove is generally sympathetic toward Carter, noting his tenacity, optimism, collegiality, his capacity for finding efficient, yet comprehensive solutions, and his ability to position issues on the national policy agenda. However, Hargrove also expands upon Carter's faults, including his failure to build political coalitions, his lack of understanding of history, his domination of decision-making processes, his failure to share credit for successes, and his inability to recognize that conflicts could be ideological instead of technical. Hargrove believes that public opinion and scholars have not adequately recognized just how full and difficult of a political agenda Carter attempted to accomplish. He claims that Carter suffered bad luck and dealt with unavoidable global events, which made it difficult to achieve more notable successes. Ultimately, Hargrove concludes that if Cater had served during a non-politically transitional time, he may have enjoined less public criticism.

As a graduate student, I recommend this book for anyone interested in Carter, American History, and Cold War History.

A recommended read
This was written as part of the Miller Center Series on the American Presidency.The information within was taken from oral interviews of Carter and other key officials by academics after the end of the Carter presidency.For those who merely dismiss Carter as a poor president, I highly recommend giving this book a read.

The book, in my opinion, does two things.It goes into the dynamics of Carter's leadership style and also gives information about what was happening behind the doors of the White House.

In a couple words, policy and decision-making were handled two ways: collegial discussion and homework.These are key to Carter's leadership.As an engineer, Carter wished to focus on a problem, do his homework, and then join discussion about the options.As the president, he reserved the right to make the final decision.This follows his engineering and religious background.If there is a problem, solve the problem.

The difficulty that arose from this was his reluctance of engaging in political maneuvering and his focus.In Washington, it is necessary at times to bargain.Carter, leading a country rebounding from the Nixon years, was determined to avoid the political battles as much as possible.In regard to focus, according to Hargrove, his focusing on a problem kept him from noticing the connection with various other problems.

At the end of the book, Hargrove talks about how this leadership style worked, and did not work, in a transition presidency.

Also, Hargrove talks of the different agenda items (like the economic policy and energy policy) and how the collegial style worked.More often than not, not all the departments were on the same page.This led to the administration to appear to be vacillating.Hargrove shows how this process worked in each agenda, which is very helpful.I found this helped me to focus on the specifics.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in the Carter presidency or anyone who did not like the Carter presidency.This book does have a good perspective on that time in American history.

A lousy book
Only this liberal, star struck writer would somehow consider Jimmy Carter a great president. 21% inflation, oil crisis, hostages in Iran, forget about them, Jimmy was great but we are too stupid to know it. ... Read more

Product Description
"I was touched by the depth of passion and awed by the firm resolve with which Mattie Stepanek pursued a dream that has evaded men and women throughout history. What began as a casual discourse, not too different from others I have had with inquisitive young people who have reached out to me, became a treasured and enlightening friendship that changed my life forever. With the purity of heart that only a child can possess, and the indomitable spirit of one who has survived more physical suffering than most adults will ever know, Mattie convinced me that his quest was not inconceivable. Inspired by his enthusiasm and without reservation, I committed to a partnership with him. . . . These words of wisdom and inspiration came from the most remarkable person I have ever known." --Jimmy Carter

Sometimes the most important messages come from the most unlikely places. Mattie J.T. Stepanek, a 13-year-old boy, made a difference before he died with his Heartsongs poetry. He continues to impact the world through Just Peace. This poet, best-selling author, peace activist, and prominent voice for the Muscular Dystrophy Association fervently believed in and promoted world peace not just as a concept, but as a reality.

Mattie was working on this manuscript with Jimmy Carter when he died in June 2004. His mother, Jeni, who edited the material and wrote a preface for the book is publishing it at her son's request. Just Peace explores Mattie's concept of the world and all people as a unique mosaic of gifts. War and injustice shatter the mosaic, which can only be made whole again by planning and actively pursuing peace. The young visionary's essays, poetry, and photographs appear throughout the book. Jimmy Carter has written a special foreword and forthword for the book.

Just as important to the book and enlightening to the reader are Mattie's many correspondences. Central to these are his personal e-mails to and from former president Jimmy Carter, Mattie's peace "hero" and role model. The Nobel Peace Prize winner met Mattie, considered him an angel, messenger, and hero in his own right, and was genuinely affected by Mattie's passion and drive. Just Peace is an intimate portrait of a president, a young man of hope, and peace itself. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Another Incredible Inspiration
Now that I've discovered the story of Mattie J. T. Stepanek after first reading his mother's newly published biography "Messenger", I continue to find it a marvelous inspiration.I notice from the dates on most of the other reviews of "Just Peace" that I am again "lately come" to this wonderful experience, but it seems ever more timely as the seasons of our world approach ever greater crises.

Part of Mattie's message, of course, was that time IS of the essence!This is a part of the reason, I believe, that God sent us a messenger who was on a very tight terrestrial schedule -- Mattie had to do what he was asked to do in a time frame that reflects in an astonishing way the short years of Christ's ministry, and in addition he was held back by his own extremely fragile health.Yet thanks to the opportunities offered by modern technology -- the continued growth of the Noosphere that Pierre Teilhard de Chardin described and predicted so eloquently -- that message continues to reach out to our struggling world.I am profoundly moved by the collaboration of the two peacemakers, Jimmy and Mattie, and the unbelievably courageous efforts of Jeni who, despite her own struggles and challenges, continues to facilitate this incredible effort.

Abook everyone should read !
A very inspirational book by an amazing little boy .Everyone will benefit from reading his " Heartsongs " & his plan for Peace !!!

A Profound and Inspirational Book
Mattie J. T. Stepanek's book is one of the most profound and inspirational books I have ever read.I don't know if any of you had the privilege of encountering young Mattie on his numerous television appearances on Oprah, Good Morning America, Larry King, or the Jerry Lewis M.D. telethon, but if you did, or did not, I invite you to read this book by this best-selling young poet, peacemaker and philosopher.Mattie J.T. Stepanek died in June, 2004, weeks before his 14th birthday.I have all his previous poetry books, but this book goes far beyond his poetry, with brilliant essays, and email correspondence with his hero, President Jimmy Carter.His essays are incredible, filled with wisdom and insights that hardly seem possible coming from such a young mind.

Mattie wrote these words:"I believe that I am here to reach out and touch the world gently with my thoughts and my experiences, and with my observations and my reactions, to help people more fully appreciate and respect all aspects of life.I believe that I am here, even if only for a few handful of years, to help people consider the important matter of future, during our lifetime, and for eternity."

His essays are profound and I find I cannot even put into words the value of his work, except to say it has to be shared.You may think, oh, this is a kid, what can he know.Trust me, his writing is beautiful, his philosophy profound, insightful, and filled with a wisdom far, far, beyond his age.His legacy is a gift for humanity, and those of us who did encounter Mattie will never forget this special angel, a messenger of peace, and those who now read his book, will also remember

Mattie J. T. Stepanek lived and died a child, but he had the spirit and wisdom of an old soul.In his short thirteen years, he became a poet, best-selling author, and peace activist, and his words touched millions of our hearts.Before his death in June 2004, his six volumes of "Heartsongs" poetry have sold more than a million copies.It is my hope that "Just Peace, A Message of Hope," will also reach millions of hearts and minds throughout the world.

I have bought a number of copies of "Just Peace: A Message of Hope" as gifts for my family and friends.

Just Inspirational
Never have I and never will I ever be so inspired by anyone in the same way I have been inspired by Mattie J. T. Stepanek.In reading this book, one has to believe in love, happiness and peace.This child and his mother have been through so much heartache and pain.It's just amazing to me how two people with so much pain can inspire the world.They truly are a gift from God.If you haven't read this book, or any of Mattie's other books, then you are really missing out!

STILL OUR GREATEST LIVING PRESIDENT AND THE BOY WHO ADMIRED HIM
Mattie was prophetic in so many ways, including in identifying our most ethical and honest and faith-based and peaceful and productive President.

America lost when we lost the Second Carter Inaugural Address.

Will we never again see a President of the USA win the Nobel Peace Prize?

Check out the excellent amazon Search Inside feature and you will be sold on this book as a valuable addition to your inspirational, political and personal library
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