The Patriarch: The Remarkable Life and Turbulent Times of Joseph P. Kennedy

Written by:
David Nasaw
Narrated by:
Malcolm Hillgartner

Unabridged Audiobook

Ratings
Book
10
Narrator
7
Release Date
November 2012
Duration
30 hours 55 minutes
Summary
In this pioneering new work, celebrated historian David Nasaw examines the life of Joseph P. Kennedy, the founder of the twentieth century's most famous political dynasty. Drawing on never-before-published materials from archives on three continents and interviews with Kennedy family members and friends, Nasaw tells the story of a man who participated in the major events of his times: the booms and busts, the Depression and the New Deal, two world wars and the Cold War, and the birth of the New Frontier. In studying Kennedy's life, we relive the history of the American century.

'Riveting . . . The Patriarch is a book hard to put down . . . As his son indelibly put it some months before his father was struck down: 'Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your county.' One wonders what was going through the mind of the patriarch, sitting a few feet away listening to that soaring sentiment as a fourth-generation Kennedy became president of the United States. After coming to know him over the course of this brilliant, compelling book, the reader might suspect that he was thinking he had done more than enough for his country. But the gods would demand even more.' - New York Times Book Review
Reviews
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Sam S.

Captivating, well read with the impersonating of the main characters keeping the story moving

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Denis K.

Inspirational book - not only about pursuing success, but also about family values and the fact that family is the most important thing in our life.

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Russ M

A very good historical account of the Joe Kennedy and the Kennedy family. At times a bit hard to read through, as Nasaw sometimes ooes overboard in details in some areas. Overall though, a very good read that provides great insight to the dynamics and inner-workings of the Kennedy clan. Highly recommend it if you have the time to read it, and are intrigued by American history and politics.

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Ellen Offen

The book is a detailed look at Joseph's Kennedy's life. It is thorough and provides insight into his business dealings, his political interests, his commitment to his family and personal life. It highlights his early life but seems to gloss over his role in the 1960 Presidential campaign.

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Alfred Gilbert

A good historical perspective of Joe Kennedy's life and historical times in which he lived. Well narrated by Malcolm Hillgartner

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