An American Life [Abridged, Audiobook] [Audio Cassette]

Ronald Reagan (Author, Reader)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 1999

Ronald Reagan is an American success story. From modest beginnings in a small midwestern town to a distinguished career in films and television, he lived the American dream; as governor of California and as the century's most popular president, he embodied and revitalized the American spirit.

Now in this dramatic and revealing memoir, Ronald Reagan recounts both his life and his beliefs with uncompromising candor and his familiar wit. He discusses his decision to run for president, historic meetings with Mikhail Gorbachev and other heads of state, his frustrations in dealing with an often hostile congress, his unshakable faith in the American people and the enduring love for Nancy, who will always be his First Lady. In a moving passage, President Reagan also speaks frankly about the assassination attempt on his life and its effects on him and his family.

An American Life is a richly detailed, definitive account of a great and historic presidency and of a unique American Life -- from the man who restored America's confidence and strength and shaped the future of the world.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Reagan presents anecdotes about his family, details his ideology, tells of his presidential candidacy and describes his eight years in the White House. Photos.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

The Washington Times One of our classic American success stories. -- Review

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Product Details

• Audio Cassette
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio; Abridged edition (October 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0743500253
• ISBN-13: 978-0743500258
• Product Dimensions: 7.1 x 4.6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (91 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #928,936 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #9 in Books > Books on Cassette > History > United States
  • #16 in Books > Books on Cassette > Biographies & Memoirs > Leaders
  • #18 in Books > Books on Cassette > Nonfiction > Politics

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

144 of 157 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Ronaldus Magnus, June 11, 2004

By 

Kurt A. Johnson (North-Central Illinois, USA) - See all my reviews
(HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)    (VINE VOICE)    (TOP 100 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: An American Life: The Autobiography (Hardcover)

In this 1990 autobiography, ex-President Ronald "Dutch" Reagan tells the story of his life, from his birth in Tampico, Illinois in 1911, to the end of his term as President of the United States in 1988. Moving along with a gentle humor and an unpretentious openness that endeared the "Gipper" to a nation, the book gives the reader a fascinating look into the real life of America's fortieth President.

I must admit that I am far from impartial when it comes to President Reagan. I came of age during the Carter malaise, and the advent of Ronald Reagan seemed like a complete rebirth of the country to my young mind. In this wonderful autobiography, Mr. Reagan takes you into his heart and mind, showing you the forces that formed him and the steps he took to form the world.

If you do not like President Reagan, then I am confident that you will not like this book - people rarely write autobiographies to expose startling and upsetting facts about themselves. But, if you are a fan of Ronaldus Magnus, then you will LOVE this book. I know I did. I highly recommend this book to everyone!

62 of 69 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Greatest President of the 20th Century, June 11, 2004

By 

Brad C Haines (Rensselaer, NY United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: An American Life (Paperback)

This is the definitive book by and about a truly great leader, and a great man. Ronald Reagan came to office at a time when America desperately need a man of his strength and character. After a decade of downturn - particularly the Carter malaise years, Reagan renewed our faith in ourselves and our nation. Today's conservatives - especially our so-called "leaders" - need to read this book.

Ronald Wilson Reagan - Ronaldus Magnus - will be missed, and we may never see his like again.

59 of 66 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book really helped me get to know Ronald Reagan the man, July 22, 1998

By 

(Greg Ogden) [e-mail] (Boise, Idaho USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: An AMERICAN LIFE (Paperback)

As a generation Xer, my growing-up years were the 80's, and this book helped me put all the things I'd heard one the news as a youngster into perspective. It's neat getting the history from one of the people who were making history at the time, such as the president. They have a unique view and insight into the events of the time. What I also liked is how Ronald Reagan presented his life story and how it led to his presidency, and the philosophies his parents tought him about life and politics. Again, another great insight into the man. I came out feeling what a humble leader he was, and though he made mistakes, he always wanted what was best for the people of this country who he was serving.