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Frank: A Life in Politics from the Great Society to Same-Sex Marriage Hardcover – March 17, 2015

4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 188 ratings

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The New York Times Bestseller

How did a disheveled, intellectually combative gay Jew with a thick accent become one of the most effective (and funniest) politicians of our time?

Growing up in Bayonne, New Jersey, the fourteen-year-old Barney Frank made two vital discoveries about himself: he was attracted to government, and to men. He resolved to make a career out of the first attraction and to keep the second a secret. Now, sixty years later, his sexual orientation is widely accepted, while his belief in government is embattled.

Frank: A Life in Politics from the Great Society to Same-Sex Marriage is one man's account of the country's transformation--and the tale of a truly momentous career. Many Americans recall Frank's lacerating wit, whether it was directed at the Clinton impeachment ("What did the president touch, and when did he touch it?") or the pro-life movement (some people believe "life begins at conception and ends at birth"). But the contours of his private and public lives are less well-known. For more than four decades, he was at the center of the struggle for personal freedom and economic fairness. From the battle over AIDS funding in the 1980s to the debates over "big government" during the Clinton years to the 2008 financial crisis, the congressman from Massachusetts played a key role. In 2010, he coauthored the most far-reaching and controversial Wall Street reform bill since the era of the Great Depression, and helped bring about the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
In this feisty and often moving memoir, Frank candidly discusses the satisfactions, fears, and grudges that come with elected office. He recalls the emotional toll of living in the closet and how his public crusade against homophobia conflicted with his private accommodation of it. He discusses his painful quarrels with allies; his friendships with public figures, from Tip O'Neill to Sonny Bono; and how he found love with his husband, Jim Ready, becoming the first sitting member of Congress to enter a same-sex marriage. He also demonstrates how he used his rhetorical skills to expose his opponents' hypocrisies and delusions. Through it all, he expertly analyzes the gifts a successful politician must bring to the job, and how even Congress can be made to work.
Frank is the story of an extraordinary political life, an original argument for how to rebuild trust in government, and a guide to how political change really happens--composed by a master of the art.


The Amazon Book Review
The Amazon Book Review
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Winner of the Randy Shilts Award for Gay Nonfiction

Frank makes fascinating political history. It helps that it's funny.” ―James Kirchick, The Wall Street Journal

“I [once] said [to Frank] I was sorry I would never be able to vote for him as the first gay president of the United States. After reading this book, I am sorrier than ever.” ―Garry Wills, The New York Review of Books

“A sophisticated and extended work of political analysis . . . What so plainly animates [Barney Frank]--and this book--is making his case for how politics and issue advocacy should be practiced. That is part of what makes Frank so edifying: He uses his personal and political rise . . . to argue, cogently and cleverly, for his point of view . . . Enriching for students of politics of any (or no) stripe.” ―Jonathan Martin, The New York Times

“A fun book to read.” ―Chuck Todd, Meet the Press

“The early 21st century's answer to Mark Twain . . . one of the most idiosyncratic, influential and entertaining people to serve [in Congress]” ―Colin Woodward, The Washington Post

“An enlightening and entertaining romp through a half-century of American politics and policymaking. But what can it possibly offer as a guide to fixing government during an era of polarization, dysfunction, and public disaffection? The short answer is more than you might think . . . . [Barney Frank] brings life, passion and humor to these sober observations and demonstrates why politics and government should be and sometimes can be a noble and uplifting undertaking.” ―Thomas E. Mann, Brookings Institute

“Much more entertaining than most political memoirs, Frank's story isn't just revealing; it may be the most fun you can have reading about the United States Congress.” ―Kirkus (starred review)

“Filled with wonderful and insightful examples of legislative maneuvering and political intrigue . . . [Frank is] worth reading as both the story of a public figure who has lived a full and fascinating life as well as a primer about American politics from an insider who knew how to make the system work.” ―Peter Dreier, The Huffington Post

“Frank's own intertwined political and personal odysseys add up to a remarkable story.” ―Julia M. Klein, Boston Globe

“Frank deliciously charts his adventures from the closet to the center of the political stage . . . Frank is candid, and self critical on each step. He details compromises and pragmatic realities. His account of life during the Clinton years is particularly fascinating.” ―Rob Watson, The Huffington Post

“A well-written, marvelous memoir.” ―Martin F. Nolan, San Francisco Chronicle

“A vivid and candid account of a life, both private and public, that is told in the gruff, wry and blunt voice that is literally unique in American politics--the inimitable voice of Barney Frank . . . Frank is an intimate, courageous, and revealing book about what the political landscape looks like from his unique perspective.” ―Jonathan Kirsch, Jewish Journal

“Barney Frank will be remembered as one of the hardest-working, quickest-thinking, most effective--and most quotable--congressmen in our nation's history. Frank tells his story with characteristic candor, from coming out of the closet and working for LGBT rights to fighting for sensible financial reforms. Frank's belief that government can improve people's lives has given passion and energy to a remarkable career in public service.” ―Elizabeth Warren, U.S. Senator for Massachusetts

“This is authentic Barney--a compelling narrative because it mixes the personal with the professional and with his one-of-a-kind sense of humor. It's also an important piece of history by a skilled legislator who has been able to get things done in Washington, D.C., that have made a real difference in all of our lives. I was privileged to work with him.” ―Hank Paulson, former Secretary of the Treasury

“This detailed and accessible memoir certainly lives up to its title, as former Massachusetts Congressman Frank offers a warts-and-all portrait of his life in public service.” ―Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“[Frank] is an illuminating look at behind-the-scenes politics and larger societal changes and one man's struggle with sexual politics and identity.” ―Vanessa Bush, Booklist (starred review)

“You will learn so much that's new from this spectacular anecdote-riddled book--even if, like me, you've known Barney Frank for forty-nine years. Who better than the smartest, funniest man in Congress, as Barney was widely perceived to be, to make the case for government, for pragmatism, for the little guy, for equality . . . and to explain how things really work--and could be better? He was there for all of it.” ―Andrew Tobias, author of The Best Little Boy in the World

“[Frank] relates in delightful candor why a man who was told he "couldn't win," ended up a national hero . . . there is no other living politician today able to compare with Barney's tireless dedication and sprightly unusual life story!” ―Liz Smith

“Frank's acumen is on display in this polemical book, along with his sometimes-biting sense of humor . . . Frank tells all . . . with wit and gusto . . . [and] with energy and indignation--all part of the package with Barney Frank.” ―Alan Rosenberg, Providence Journal (on audiobook edition)

About the Author

Barney Frank represented the Fourth Congressional District of Massachusetts for more than three decades and chaired the House Financial Services Committee from 2007 to 2011. He is a regular commentator on MSNBC and divides his time between a home with his husband near Portland, Maine, and his apartment in Newton, Massachusetts.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ 0374280304
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Farrar, Straus and Giroux; First Edition (March 17, 2015)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 400 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9780374280307
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0374280307
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 1 x 8 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 188 ratings

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
188 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the book excellent, compelling, and interesting. They also describe the writing style as well-written, fresh, straightforward, candid, and unapologetic. Readers say the content is encyclopedia-like, fascinating, and detailed. They appreciate the humor and behind-the-scenes look at Congress. Opinions are mixed on enjoyment.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

37 customers mention "Readability"37 positive0 negative

Customers find the book excellent, compelling, and interesting. They say it's an important book with brilliant political insights.

"...Brilliant, beautifully written and never boring. HIghly highly recommended...." Read more

"An excellent account of Barney Frank's professional life, before becoming a Representative, but especially of his many years in the House...." Read more

"...phases of his life and the issues he has confronted are fascinating and wise. He also presents a well-considered understanding of the banking system...." Read more

"Pretty good, really. Am finding the reading sufficiently interesting to keep me awake while reading in bed, though I bought it to put me to sleep :-)..." Read more

30 customers mention "Insight"30 positive0 negative

Customers find the book insightful, informative, and interesting. They say it's revealing and educational. Readers also mention the book is a wonderful introduction to the workings of government and politics. They appreciate the honesty, clarity of thought, humor, and intellectual rigor.

"...In general, it is sweet-spirited despite Frank's rep as an old curmudgeon and full of praise for those on both sides of the aisle who have won his..." Read more

"...Given that, the book is a wonderful introduction to the workings of government and politics, from the Mayor's office in Boston to Congress...." Read more

"...Yes, it is Barney Frank's voice all through. And, yes, it is filled with information...." Read more

"...It is also a love story that warms the heart and rekindles the hope that, amid seeming congressional infertility, there may just be a few seeds..." Read more

25 customers mention "Writing style"25 positive0 negative

Customers find the writing style well-written, fresh, and straightforward. They also say the book is candid, unapologetic, easy to read, and not preachy. Readers appreciate the honest perspective of his commentary. They mention the text is smooth and digestible.

"...It is an excellent exposition of pragmatic politics and of fighting for the good in a system dominated by self-serving politicians and those..." Read more

"...The book is very well written (and is not without humor) and without bragging displays his leadership roles on many occasions...." Read more

"...find a wealth of historical information along with the honest perspective of his commentary...." Read more

"...His honesty, clarity of thought, humor and intellectual rigor are captured and thus most engaged citizens should enjoy and benefit from reading it-..." Read more

9 customers mention "Encyclopedia content"9 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's content interesting and detailed. They say it tells the story of a great politician, who is remarkable and informed. Readers also mention the issues he has confronted are fascinating.

"...very well written (and is not without humor) and without bragging displays his leadership roles on many occasions...." Read more

"...on the different phases of his life and the issues he has confronted are fascinating and wise...." Read more

"Barney has written a very interesting and detailed account of his life, his political struggles, and the complicated and stressful realities of..." Read more

"This book tells the story of a great politician - whether you liked him or not you will find out how he could be successful for such a long time by..." Read more

9 customers mention "Humor"9 positive0 negative

Customers find the book witty, charming, and intelligent.

"...It is also very funny, as Frank recounts some of his now legendary counterattacks on opponents...." Read more

"...The book is very well written (and is not without humor) and without bragging displays his leadership roles on many occasions...." Read more

"...His honesty, clarity of thought, humor and intellectual rigor are captured and thus most engaged citizens should enjoy and benefit from reading it-..." Read more

"...He is also funny." Read more

8 customers mention "Look"8 positive0 negative

Customers find the book interesting, informative, and charming. They say it's a heartfelt look into the life of a dedicated and feisty man.

"Barney has written a very interesting and detailed account of his life, his political struggles, and the complicated and stressful realities of..." Read more

"..."pols", but even in addition to that this is a tremendously interesting inside view of how the Congress does and should work...." Read more

"Heartfelt and informative look into the life of a dedicated and feisty man, and a remarkable and informed politician...." Read more

"...review of someone's career delivered in such a direct, honest, fascinating fashion. Read this book." Read more

6 customers mention "Story quality"6 positive0 negative

Customers find the story fantastic, compelling, and interesting. They say it's a love story that warms their hearts.

"...It is also a love story that warms the heart and rekindles the hope that, amid seeming congressional infertility, there may just be a few seeds..." Read more

"Interesting story about Frank's life in politics...." Read more

"Excellent and a moving story of Barney Frank's amazing life ad a person and public figure.I will read it again." Read more

"Very compelling and interesting memoir. Of particular fun to those with interest in politics" Read more

8 customers mention "Book enjoyment"4 positive4 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the book. Some mention it's entertaining and educating, while others say it's boring.

"...Brilliant, beautifully written and never boring. HIghly highly recommended...." Read more

"...However, this is really not a very interestingly written book. Yes, it is Barney Frank's voice all through. And, yes, it is filled with information...." Read more

"...think you have followed Barney Frank's career closely, this is an entertaining and insightful read...." Read more

"...I thought the book really was rather boring and I must admit that I stopped reading it about 2/3 of the way through and that is very unusual for me...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

Reviewed in the United States on March 20, 2015
Anyone expecting a juicy tell-all might be disappointed, as will those seeking snarky new quips. But this book should be required reading for anyone interested in American Government or LGBT history. I was fascinated and learned a great deal about how our government actually works. It is an excellent exposition of pragmatic politics and of fighting for the good in a system dominated by self-serving politicians and those beholden to the highest campaign contributors. It is also very funny, as Frank recounts some of his now legendary counterattacks on opponents. In general, it is sweet-spirited despite Frank's rep as an old curmudgeon and full of praise for those on both sides of the aisle who have won his admiration. He also takes the time to explain some of his controversial decisions and how he came to them. Brilliant, beautifully written and never boring. HIghly highly recommended. Fans of the American version of House of Cards should read this just to see how far the series departs from the reality of American government.
37 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on August 18, 2015
I once published a letter in the Washington Post defending Barney Frank from charges that he was rude to the point of meanness. I argued instead that he was honest and not willing to engage in all the polite niceties that make civilization possible, "not one of those oily people who grease the gears of the system." But I was wrong,
In this book, Barney shows that he knew exactly how to do that, how to compromise when necessary, how to make allies across the aisle, how to work within the system. In fact, despite Barney's reputation as the most left of the lefties, his is a conservative argument for working within the system rather than confronting it from the outside. Beginning with his working the Civil Rights movement in the 60's to his LGBT activities, he has, he shows us, argued for the system, a reformer rather than a radical.
Given that, the book is a wonderful introduction to the workings of government and politics, from the Mayor's office in Boston to Congress. He shows us how the system works with clarity and his usual humor. The book is not itself funny. The author rarely jokes, but he lightens the text with accounts of his past jokes. His main emphasis is on the economic crisis of 2008 and the LGBT rights movement, but he includes a lot of other campaigns, some perhaps he would rather not recall. Back when he was in Boston, he argued for a stop to police harassment of Boston's combat zone. I remember reading the the press his argument,"Dirty old men have rights too," and thinking that belonged up there with Voltaire. I have loved him from afar ever since. He discusses being Jewish but leaves out anything about Israel, of which there is only one passing reference in the book. Yet his occasionally emotional support for Israel is one of those quirks I would have liked to learn more about. I highly recommend this for any budding politician or social scientist who would enjoy an engaging inside tour of the way things really work.
4 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on March 28, 2015
As a former colleague of Barney's I was not surprised to note that people interested in history, politics and the progress in LGBT Rights would find interesting reading in this book. I am, however, pleased with the additional impression that Barney's "voice" resonates throughout. His honesty, clarity of thought, humor and intellectual rigor are captured and thus most engaged citizens should enjoy and benefit from reading it-even if they disagree with his political views. Who knows, with such clear and rational thought perhaps some might even be coaxed over to his philosophies.
13 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on May 18, 2015
An excellent account of Barney Frank's professional life, before becoming a Representative, but especially of his many years in the House. The book is very well written (and is not without humor) and without bragging displays his leadership roles on many occasions. Of special interest is Franks activities--while a closeted gay person and after coming out--in behalf of the LGBT population, climaxing with his success in ending the dubious period of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. The House could use more members like Barney Frank.
Reviewed in the United States on March 28, 2015
Classic Barney Frank, everything seen in the first person singular. But, given it is a memoir that is largely understandable. I'm about 25% through....it's an easy read, lots of pleasant asides and admissions. I'm feeling this is a very personal, open attempt by Frank to try and reveal himself and what he has experienced. Now, beyond himself, he's very effusive about the many people in his life; but I've yet to read what, if anything, he has to say about Bill O'Reilly.
The text is smooth and very digestible, and the chapters are not run on screeds. The guy knows how to communicate!!!! If you are a political junkie --as I am-- this is a pleasant meal that's insightful and easily digestible
6 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on May 31, 2015
Pretty good, really. Am finding the reading sufficiently interesting to keep me awake while reading in bed, though I bought it to put me to sleep :-). Since we're not supposed to take our electronics to bed anymore, have had to give up my Kindle before lights-out.
Reviewed in the United States on September 8, 2023
Highly recommended!
Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2015
Heartfelt and informative look into the life of a dedicated and feisty man, and a remarkable and informed politician. Candid and unapologetic (for the most part), but also passionate and vulnerable, I think this is the best book he has written (to date). Thanks for your many years of service and commitment to our country, Sir.