Edward Klein writes a great story. His writing, his reporting, is impeccable. His sources seem to be very credible. Of course, we all remember conversations slightly different than they were and in each person who does the telling the story seems to grow like a tornado in Kansas. But the original intent seldom changes. And facts are checked.

This book is a page-turner. I seldom pay much attention to the stories of politicians because they're all so shallow and egotistical and such experienced psychological lairs. But this book is not written "by" a politician but by a skilled and, hopefully, objective reporter. One of the first things we're taught in journalism school is to be objective. Unfortunately, however, people don't seem to be learning that anymore. I think Klein still maintains that vital journalistic skill.

Everything in the book has already been leaked or reviewed here. I won't repeat all that. All I'll say is that it's an eye-opener. I'd heard some of the stories before and suspected many more. With politicians, you're not dealing with normal people. Power is the coin of the realm to them --- the only currency they know or care about.

I personally do not like the Clintons nor do I like the Obamas. Nor for that matter do I like many on the other side of the isle. I dislike politicians equally and without bias or regard to party or anything else. Frankly, I liked the Clintons and the Obamas even less after reading this delightful book.

The egos of the two Clintons and the two Obamas are unbelievable. They all four feel entitled. That, I think, is at the center of this book. The feeling of utter entitlement coupled with childish fears and insecurities that make them close to pathological people ill fit to lead. And yet the American public vote for these people. They adore Bill Clinton as if he were a god. In return, Clinton uses the public's adoration for his advantage. He uses everyone and everything. But then, all pols do. It's just that Bill Clinton is superior at it. Both families want dynasties. It's all about them. Not the American people.

Edward Klein has given us an eloquent study on two powerful families and their inordinate need to get and keep total power long term.

-- Susanna K. Hutcheson