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View Full Version : Biography at its finest

Senator
02-16-2003, 12:48 AM
I would like to humbly offer to the community my endorsement of one of the finest books, and series of books I have ever read.

Robert Caro's latest in the LBJ series is called Master of the Senate. The two previous were works of art, this one is a masterpiece. Being involved in Texas politics, it pangs me to say, this New Yoker gets it. He understands what its like here, where politics is a contact sport.

This latest book deals with Johnsons Senate years. I have been waiting for 12 years for this one, and just finished it. It is not light fare, but if you want to know how power works, not what they taught us in poli sci class, but how true power works, do yourself a favor and read this beautiful piece of literature.

LBJ MASTER OF THE SENATE (http://www.robertcaro.com/senate.htm)
Barkeep49
02-16-2003, 12:52 AM
I was often in awe of of this book. While some of the critics didn't like the huge amount of space spent on the history of the Senate, I found it a nice history, even as someone who knew a good deal about the events described. Cairo's ability to truly understand not only Johnson but the people he was dealing with was just unbelievable. I simply hope that he doesn't die before the next book, as I can not imagine what he'll be able to do with Johnson's presidency.
Senator
02-16-2003, 01:53 PM
He is in his early 60's, no reason why he should not finish. The LBJ tapes keep getting released slowly. They should give him the entire collection, so he can finish up this great bio.

Manchester only finished 2 of the 3 Churchill bio's. Although Gilberts is the definitive bio, and I am proud to say I finished it, it reads factual and dry. I wished Manchester could have completed it, but it will never happen now.
AgPete
02-17-2003, 08:05 AM
That is a FANTASTIC series. I'm a native Texan and LBJ is one of my favorite characters in our nation's history. If there ever was a politician that represented the things Texans pride themselves on, it's big ol' LBJ. I haven't read the newest one yet. It's going to take him a while to finish this series but it's worth it. It has to be the best political biography I've ever read.