From AudioFile
In 1954-55 a freshman U.S. Senator from Massachusetts wrote a book profiling eight of his historical Senatorial colleagues, such men as John Quincy Adams, Sam Houston, and Robert A. Taft. Instead of focusing on their storied careers, John F. Kennedy chose to illustrate their acts of integrity, when they stood alone against tremendous political and social pressure for what they felt was right. This abridged audio is introduced by Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg, and the text is read admirably by the late John F. Kennedy, Jr. There is a sense of family legacy and pride about the president's children taking part in the project. At some point, however, one aches to hear the distinctive voice of JFK himself. That wish is fulfilled superbly on the fourth CD, which includes three speeches written and delivered by Kennedy while president--sounding so distant and yet so familiar. Kennedy's Inaugural Address alone more than illustrates why both the man and the twentieth-century icon still captivate our nation, and the world, to this day. B.P. © AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine


Springfield Republican
"A book that deserves reading by every American."

ANNOTATION

John F. Kennedy's spirited words and devotion to courage live on in this edition of his Pulitzer-prize winning portraits of Americans.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

During 1954-1955, John F. Kennedy, then a U.S. senator, chose eight of his historical colleagues to profile for their acts of astounding integrity in the face of overwhelming opposition. These heroes include John Quincy Adams, Daniel Webster, Thomas Hart Benton, and Robert A. Taft.

Awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1957, Profiles in Courage -- now featuring a new Introduction by Caroline Kennedy, as well as Robert Kennedy's Foreword written for the 1964 memorial edition -- resounds with timeless lessons on the most cherished of virtues and is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. It is, as Robert Kennedy writes, "not just stories of the past but a book of hope and confidence for the future. What happens to the country, to the world, depends on what we do with what others have left us."

FROM THE CRITICS

New York Times

It is refreshing and enlightening to have a first-rate politician write a thoughtful and persuasive book about political integrity.

Springfield Republican