From Publishers Weekly
In time for election fever is this favorable look at how George W. Bush's faith has influenced his life and politics. Aikman, a former senior correspondent for
Time magazine and the author of several books, including
Great Souls, opens with Bush's startling 1999 declaration that the philosopher he most identified with was "Christ-because he changed my heart." A seasoned journalist, Aikman proceeds to methodically unpack Bush's spiritual journey, documenting important touchstones along the way, much as Stephen Mansfield did in his book,
The Faith of George W. Bush, but without Mansfield's colorful detail. Aikman offers some Bush family history, examines his wayward years and details Bush's transformation from churchgoer to a Christian who internalized his faith. The tone is solidly pro-Bush, with quick jabs at the likes of Maureen Dowd and generous flattery for the Texan. Some information offered for context borders on filler, including almost three pages of Methodist church history (related to the Bushes' affiliation with that denomination in 1989-1995) and the text of a sermon Bush preached in 1999. And, although he spends time summarizing Bush's positions on everything from Israel to 9/11, Aikman fails to address Bush's controversial environmental policies, something Mansfield also neglected. Still, in an election year when voters want to see if Bush's spiritual rhetoric is more than just surface chatter, there's plenty of evidence here that the man is sincere in his faith.
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Product Description
More than any other world leader in recent times, George W. Bush is a man of faith
a conservative Christian who has brought the power of prayer and the search for God's will into the Oval Office. His faith has proven to be a bedrock of strength and resolve during two of the most tumultuous years in our nation's history.According to Newsweek magazine, this presidency is the most resolutely faith based in modern times. An enterprise founded, supported and guided by trust in the temporal and spiritual power of God.David Aikman, skilled journalist and former senior correspondent for TIME magazine, pens this dramatic and gripping account of Bush's journey to faith. Based on interviews and behind-the-scenes stories, you'll learn how
· His life changed after a conversation with Billy Graham on the beach at Kennebunkport
· He walked away from alcoholism toward a new destiny
· The events following 9/11 caused many to view him as God's chosen man for this critical time in history
· His decision to go to war with Iraq became the ultimate test of his faith
A Man of Faith
an intimate look at how Bush's spiritual life has impacted his presidency, the nation, and the world.