It is by turns poignant and hilarious, as she moves from the classroom to the boardroom of the New York Stock Exchange (where someone mistakenly thought they would get a big name who wouldn’t push back at $140 million executive compensation packages) to the indignities of being a 'former somebody' ... But there are more telling moments that resonate in the current political moment ... Her book is also a reminder that for all the complexities of her time in office, it was, in retrospect, the last moment we remember of unchallenged American supremacy.
This passionately told account of Albright’s 'afterlife' will inspire readers to become involved in the issues meaningful to them. Recommended for all interested in politics, leadership, and women’s studies.
The book reflects the energy and churn of [Albrights's] post-State Department life. It zigs-zags from subject to subject, keeping you on your toes, never quite sure where the next paragraph will take you ... veers like a conversation, albeit a one-sided one. And like any conversation with someone you know, there are stories you've heard before. Afterall Albright's afterlife includes book writing, and this memoir recounts the previous six: from how and why she wrote a book about her pins to her family's immigration to the United States. But even a well-trod story can have a new nugget ... If there is a weakness in this memoir, it's one that Albright points out herself. She's 'not especially introspective' ... I liked the professorial sections of the book. They're interesting, funny and I learned a thing or two about policy making post-government. But you'll also get that in the books that have been, and will be, written about her ... What resonated with me most were the human moments, those real thoughts you have when contemplating life, death and everything in between...That recognition of experience, of a life of service, or a life well lived is in the book, but in bits and pieces. It's like panning for gold. You have to work to get it. But when you do find that nugget, it is something to be treasured.
Her engrossing memoir of 20 years of life outside the political arena is rich with insider anecdotes, while her self-deprecating humor and droll levity are the perfect counterpoints to riveting episodes of more sobering significance. Albright is a national treasure, and her continued engagement in public service is inspiring and indispensable.
The former secretary of state reflects on the world that has emerged since she left office in 2001 ... Dishy, as policy-wonkish memoirs go, and a pleasure for readers interested in the art of negotiation.
Former secretary of state Albright...weaves geopolitics with her own life story in this intelligent and personable memoir ... She proves to be a capacious storyteller, willing to share personal disappointments, such as the dissolution of her marriage, as well as professional accomplishments. This appealing memoir will charm readers interested in contemporary politics and women’s issues.
