Whatever they think of his policies, most people would agree that Ronald Reagan was not just an ordinary person. In fact, many would say he was a great man.
Now, there’s nothing like the biography of someone great to inspire young people (or anyone else, for that matter). The Faith of Ronald Reagan by Mary Beth Brown, not quite a biography or perhaps a very one-sided one, is sure to inspire because of its unique point of view. Rather than outline Mr. Reagan’s policies, it traces the story of his faith and shows how that faith shaped him and influenced his entire life.
Reagan’s parents, especially his mother, influenced him greatly. Her faith lived on in him, giving him the strength to deal with a life full of challenges and grave responsibilities. From his summer lifeguard job, where he saved many lives, to his public speaking career with General Electric, one can see God preparing him for the office of president. A humble man who was always looking for the best in people, Reagan faced the challenges of political office with prayer. As he wrote in a letter, “The every day demands of this job could leave me with may doubts and fears if it were not for the wisdom and strength that come from these times of prayer.”
By its very nature, this book may leave the superficial reader with the impression that the author thought Mr. Reagan was close to perfect. However, Mary Beth Brown clearly indicated his flaws as well as his faith, although she focused on the latter. By emphasizing that he was a man of prayer, compassion, and faith, the author gave us and our teens an example of a life well-lived in God’s service.
Not only did Mary Beth tell us about Ronald Reagan’s life; she also drew out life lessons for us. Although these bother some people, I think they suit the tone and message of The Faith of Ronald Reagan. This is a book to read, reread, and learn from.
Note that The Faith of Ronald Reagan assumes a basic knowledge of Mr. Reagan’s political life. If one reads this book together with a more conventional biography, one can see how Mr. Reagan’s faith shaped not only his own life but also his country and the world.
Disclosure: I received a free review copy of this book from Booksneeze in order to share my honest opinions.
I saw Reagan in person when he was campaigning for president. That was pretty cool! And it’s an experience I will always remember. That is one reason why I took dd to see Obama when he was here, even though I don’t agree with much that he stands for.
That is so exciting!
I haven’t seen any famous people at all, and I don’t think I’ll be standing in a crowd to see Kate and William when they come to Ottawa either. Perhaps not liking crowds has something to do with not seeing famous people! 🙂
Annie Kate
Sounds like an interesting read. I’ll have to check it out. Btw, having your own domain is sweet! The site loads very quickly and I hope you enjoy your new and smooth infrastructure:) Please tell Teen Geek he is doing a good job, too!
Thanks, Heather! I was a bit nervous about changing everything, but it has all gone smoothly. And thanks so much for connecting by Google Friends. I barely had it up, and your face was already there!
Blessings,
Annie Kate
Oh, you find all the good books on Booksneeze! 🙂 I like your new home here, too.
Yes, there are a lot of good books on Booksneeze. As you know from experience.;)
Annie Kate
This is a book that I’ve kept through Booksneeze. Some don’t make the cut 😉 You’ve done well on this review 🙂 I look forward to reading more.