The Man I Knew

The Amazing Story of George H. W. Bush's Post-Presidency

By: Jean Becker

Narrated by: Kathleen McInerney, George Dvorsky

A heartfelt portrait of President George H.W. Bush—and his post-presidential life—by the confidante who knew him best.

Critic reviews

“Jean Becker’s beautiful book, THE MAN I KNEW, is a touching and fascinating look at a man both of us loved and admired—George H.W. Bush. As his chief of staff for almost two decades, Becker lovingly reveals stories about her boss that capture all aspects of his life as the ‘Former Leader of the Free World,’ as he sometimes called himself after leaving the White House. Her book is a must read for anyone interested in one of the very best presidents in our history.”—James A. Baker III

"Other than Barbara Bush, Jean Becker probably knew George H.W. Bush better than anyone, so her enchanting, moving and altogether wonderful memoir of her years as his chief of staff is aptly titled. THE MAN I KNEW is an important—no, necessary—addition to the shelf of books about the most beautifully-souled man who ever led this country."—Christopher Buckley

"What really stunned me about President Bush 41 is that eventually his impression of me doing him was better than my original impression of him. No one said ‘na ga da it’ (not going to do it) quite like 41! I am honored that our friendship is part of this funny, insightful book of a man I came to greatly admire.”—Dana Carvey

“With her ever-sharp eyes, ears and pen, Jean Becker has given us the last great book on George H. W. Bush—the story of a former president who knew how to live and how to die and how to keep his friends and loved ones close—and laughing—all the way.” —Michael Duffy

“Jean Becker’s intimate portrait of President George H. W. Bush captures the essence of this extraordinary public servant who devoted his life to leading by example and inspiring the best in all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. His service continued in his post presidency life, and Jean’s deliciously funny, magnanimous remembrance is a timely reminder of a man who taught us how to become a kinder, gentler nation."—Valerie Jarrett

“What I love best about THE MAN I KNEWis the reader will be reintroduced to the funny, dear, generous—did I say funny?—father I adored. I am grateful to Jean Becker for sharing her stories from the 25 years she was my dad’s chief of staff. Even I heard a few things I didn’t know!” —Dora Bush Koch

some interesting stories

there were many great stories and anecdotes. it is a long book to listen to, lots of fluff between the great parts. the narrator is a slow speaking and clear, almost too slow though.

Heartwarming

Loved this inside heart view! Hated to have it end. GHW Bush made me proud to be American!

Great book about a great man

A great book about a great man without a political theme. He was truly America’s gentleman

Such a heartwarming and incredible man!

What an incredible book! The author so eloquently allowed the reader to understand his ability to lead a country his sensitivity to lead a family and his humor and loyalty to lead everyone around him!

Wish I’d voted for him

Lessons for every Republican but also Dems.... lots of laugh out loud moments. Interesting from start to finish.