“A great American success story . . . an endearing and well-written book.”—The New York Times Book Review Colin Powell is the embodiment of the American dream. He was born in Harlem to immigrant parents from Jamaica. He knew the rough life of the streets. He overcame a barely average start at school. Then he joined the Army. The rest is history—Vietnam, the Pentagon, Panama, Desert Storm—but a history that until now has been known only on the surface. Here, for the first time, Colin Powell himself tells us how it happened, in a memoir distinguished by a heartfelt love of country and family, warm good humor, and a soldier's directness. My American Journey is the powerful story of a life well lived and well told. It is also a view from the mountaintop of the political landscape of America. At a time when Americans feel disenchanted with their leaders, General Powell's passionate views on family, personal responsibility, and, in his own words, "the greatness of America and the opportunities it offers" inspire hope and present a blueprint for the future. An utterly absorbing account, it is history with a vision. Praise for My American Journey “The stirring, only-in-America story of one determined man's journey from the South Bronx to directing the mightiest of military forces . . . Fascinating.”—The Washington Post Book World “Eloquent.”—Los Angeles Times Book Review “Profound and moving . . . Must reading for anyone who wants to reaffirm his faith in the promise of America.”—Jack Kemp, The Wall Street Journal “A book that is much like its subject—articulate, confident, impressive, but unpretentious and witty. . . . Whether you are a political junkie, a military buff, or just interested in a good story, My American Journey is a book well worth reading.”—San Diego Union Tribune “Colin Powell's candid, introspective autobiography is a joy for all with an appetite for well-written political and social commentary.”—The Detroit News
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"I never thought I would find so much knowledge/wisdom that would be applicable by my life in a book written by a career military person, but I did. I HIGHLY recommend this book - I found it very inspiring. If he's half the person he appears to be in this book, he's a fine person indeed... "
— Joanna (5 out of 5 stars)
" Fascinating inside view of modern American history. "
— Dorrit, 2/24/2011" Inspiring. What a true American Success story. He is a truly great human being. "
— Mark, 2/19/2011" I really enjoyed this book and the perspective it gave me on both the Korean and Vietnam wars. I found Colin Powell's history to be intriguing, and I have a lot of respect for him. "
— Mary, 11/9/2010" I have great respect for Colin Powell. "
— Mary, 4/27/2010" A great book about Gen. Powell and his life experiences. I believe this book is a great biography and also quite a superb military and political insight into the America. "
— Aaron, 2/24/2010" Actually, I cheated. I listened to this on tape read by the author. It was really very good. What a remarkable fellow! I respected his quiet mannerism and subtle wisdom as a leader, but having listen to this autobiography I respect him even more. "
— Kaye, 2/18/2010" I absolutely love this book. I read it and re-read it. "
— Chelle, 2/1/2010" It had some interesting infomraiton about his poitical and public life but I would hav eenjoyed more about his more personal life. "
— Judith, 11/22/2009Colin L. Powell is an American statesman and a retired four-star general in the United States Army.
Joseph E. Persico is the author of Roosevelt’s Secret War: FDR and World War II Espionage; Eleventh Month, Eleventh Day, Eleventh Hour: Armistice Day, 1918–World War I and Its Violent Climax; Piercing the Reich; and Nuremberg: Infamy on Trial, which was made into a television docudrama. He also collaborated with Colin Powell on his autobiography, My American Journey. He lives in Guilderland, New York.