Download Forcing the Spring: Inside the Fight for Marriage Equality Audiobook

“A stunning account…Drawing on five years of unlimited access to Olson and Boies’ team, [Becker] has crafted an engrossing narrative filled with details gleaned from fraught backroom conversations and private emails. Though some critics allege that Becker highlights certain key figures at the expense of others, the history she re-creates using material as dry as court records and judges’ written opinions is as taut and suspenseful as a novel. She also zeroes in on human moments. Forcing the Spring stands as not just the definitive account of the battle for same-sex marriage rights but a thrilling and compassionate one, too. Grade: A.”

“Becker’s account of the hearings and her analysis of the complicated legal theories involved in the long appeals process are excellent. Her writing about the four plaintiffs in the case—the true emotional heroes of this book—is particularly affecting…The real story it tells is how seemingly small moments, occurring by happenstance, when combined with boldness and imagination, can help to change the course of history.”

“A stunningly intimate story…Maybe because she’s such a versatile reporter, Becker saw the big picture. The fight for marriage equality did not end in a total victory on the Supreme Court steps but triumphed in a higher court, the court of public opinion. It may not be the story she set out to tell, but it’s a great one nonetheless.”

“A riveting legal drama, a snapshot in time, when the gay rights movement altered course and public opinion shifted with the speed of a bullet train...Becker’s most remarkable accomplishment is to weave a spellbinder of a tale that, despite a finale reported around the world, manages to keep readers gripped until the very end.”

“A thorough, perceptive read…Becker navigates the vast amount of legal history, backroom conversations, media wrangling, and personal stories with an ease that makes what could otherwise be a demanding or partisan story into learned political journalism… The book stands testament to good political writing and a wealth of information made alive through prose.”

“Pulitzer Prize–winning reporter Becker had unprecedented access for five years to the astonishing legal drama that witnessed a massive shift in public and political opinions about gay rights and marriage equality…Becker’s chronicle of a legal battle reveals deeper changes in the cultural and political landscape of a nation grappling with old prejudices and changing public opinion that continue to resonate.”

“[A] gripping narrative…[Becker’s] momentum is resolutely forward, her writing so brisk and urgent that even though we know the outcome, the tension in the courtroom scenes and the intervals of waiting for decisions remains taut, even nerve-wracking. Becker’s access gives us insights into other aspects of the story, as well…First-rate reporting informs this thrilling narrative of hope.”

“Jaime Leonhart’s strong, slightly nasal narration captures the story of a groundbreaking legal case…Her focus is appropriate, given the shift in public opinion that accompanied and shaped the battle in the courts. Leonhart’s pleasant alto is clear and easy to follow.”