Positives Stephen Ambrose's initial volume on Richard Nixon is widely lauded for its scrupulous fairness and balanced approach, even by reviewers who note the author's personal lack of admiration for his subject. Readers found the biography richly detailed and well-researched, drawing from a variety of sources to create a comprehensive picture of Nixon's early life and political ascent. Ambrose is frequently praised as a gifted storyteller, making the book a highly readable and enjoyable page-turner that effectively introduces supporting characters and historical context. Many appreciated the deep dive into Nixon's formative years, his role as an anti-communism figure, and his complex relationship with President Eisenhower, offering fresh insights into how he became such a polarizing politician. The book is credited with humanizing Nixon, presenting him as an intelligent, driven, and patriotic figure who championed civil rights, thereby challenging preconceived notions some readers held.
Negatives Despite its strengths, the book faces some criticisms. Several reviewers mention the historical plagiarism accusations against Ambrose and the sometimes thin footnotes, which have tarnished his reputation. Some feel his writing, while good, doesn't quite reach the intense focus or crispness of biographers like Robert Caro or David McCullough, and certain areas are less detailed compared to other biographies. There are observations that Ambrose occasionally strays too far into Eisenhower's story, and his portrayal of Pat Nixon is seen as uneven, often presenting her as subservient without exploring her own motivations. A few readers noted minor editorial issues or questioned some of Ambrose's historical interpretations, suggesting he might at times be overly apologetic for Nixon's less admirable traits. Additionally, being published in 1987, the book naturally predates information that has emerged since.
Conclusion Overall, this first volume is considered a solid and highly recommended introduction to Richard Nixon's life up to 1962. It successfully portrays him as a complex individual and a political genius shaped by both victories and defeats. This book would particularly appeal to readers seeking a comprehensive, objective, and engaging account of Nixon's early career and personal development, without delving into later controversies. It is ideal for those interested in understanding the origins of a pivotal figure in American politics and the historical context of the post-World War II era, especially if they are open to a nuanced perspective that moves beyond simplistic portrayals.
