Rating: 
Summary: Entertaining
Review: You can't help but like this man whether you agree with him or not. This was a book about a man who jumped on most of the opportunities in life that came his way. What I enjoyed most about this book was his sharing his experiences being stationed in the south (Fort Benning, Georgia) in the early 1960's, mentioning that heading north to New York you had to have a strong bladder if you were black. What I admire most about Colin Powell is that, though he made it to the top as a soldier, he put his time in the trenches & combat. Politically we're different. He's a progressive Republican & an internationalist. I'm more of a populist. Howevwer, I feel he does what he believes is right, and, in the best interest of this nation
Rating: 
Summary: A man of good character
Review: I was so impressed by this book. Secretary Powell is a great story-teller and has a good sense of humor. He loves Volvos and his family. He has great respect for the positions he has held and has worked hard to achieve great things. I am a better person for having read this book. Secretary Powell displays character and good judgement. I feel confident with him leading our country. Will he ever run for president? Now that I've read his book, I doubt it. One interesting thing I learned from reading this book - people always ask why we didn't take Saddam Hussein out when we had the chance. Read this book and you will understand why and that it was the right decision at the time. Great job, sir.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent. A must read for those who want to lead.
Review: This book should be standard fare in U.S. schools on "How to live your life and be successful". The name of the book should be: "Colin Powell an American Hero". What is America waiting for? Powell for President. NM
Rating:
Summary: Well worth the time to read
Review: (Now) Secretary of State Colin Powell's life has been full and rewarding. Readers of this book can't help but be impressed with the number of things that Powell has been witness or party to in the last 40 years of U.S. History. Secretary Powell has been a victim of civil rights abuses, met Elvis when they were in the Army, done tours in Vietnam, survived a chopper crash, and participated in the total change of the Army (and military for that matter) following that conflict. Powell's book is easily read, and holds attention very well. I woud encourage anyone with an interest in military affairs, world affairs, or U.S. History to spend a few evenings curled up with this book.
Rating:
Summary: Read by a non-reader
Review: Though I read quickly, I don't read much. I'm the mother of a 4 year-old, so I don't have time! I really wanted to read this book but was overwhelmed to see that it was 600+ pages. I must tell you that it kept my interest the entire time. This is a man who believes in hard work and no free ride. He didn't want his stars unless he earned them. He tells of earnest compliments. One reviewer criticized Powell for this. I think that reviewer failed to see Powell's intent to flatter those who gave compliments by letting the rest of us see the generous side of them. Powell is a family man and I was surprised at his love for old Volvos. His heart is in the military, but it keeps being drug back to Washington. I doubt he would consider the presidency. He would not appreciate the position of being THE BLACK president. He's not into that. He could do the job, for sure, but wouldn't want it because he's black. His wife comes across as an extremely strong woman and the family is very close. Overall, I was extremely please at this well-written biography.
Rating:
Summary: not long enough!
Review: This book is worth reading just for the historical value alone. It contains insight into some of our nation's most difficult times. I especially enjoyed his perceptions on political and military figures. The manner in which he describes events leading to various political and military operations is highly compelling. His accomplishments in life are amazing to say the least.
Rating:
Summary: A Delightful Book Worthy of Every American¿s Read
Review: The best autobiography I have ever read. Collin Powell had something important to say on many topics. A well written book that had to be long. Those reviewers that contend that it is not well written are from another planet in my opinion. Assuming a long healthy life, Powell's contributions to America are far from over. How bizarre. One reviewer complains that this is an autobiography and not a biography. The advantage of autobiography is that you get that persons unique perspective not messed up by a historian or the many reporters that now consider themselves historians since we buy their books. The true feelings and emotions of the person are precious in an autobiography. One great strength is his ability to talk about prejudice to all races without preaching and yet provides a guide to conduct for all concerned. His insights or takes on the numerous national leaders is very stimulating and derived from close personal knowledge. Those that are put out by his Republican leanings and can't deal with the personal observations may be well served to cool off and think again. He was only one of several people that rejected the invitation to become Secretary of State under President Clinton because of the President's lack of understanding in foreign affairs. No Pun intended. Clinton receives praise on other points as to other Democratic leaders. If you don't like Powell calling it the way he sees it at this point in his life, where among the human race are we to find advise on modern day real issues. Every human in telling their own story gilds the lily to some degree. I prefer to give those that have served with great honor and distinction the benefit of the doubt. How else are we to benefit from the first hand knowledge of a solid American. Powell came to the table to simply make his way in life with honor and dignity and instead greatly enriched our national heritage. Assuming you care about the issues of the day, there are many insights to be gained from this book. I look forward to his return to private life and his future writing and speaking contributions. In the meantime, we are in goods hands each time Powell leads.
Rating: 
Summary: too big and too long
Review: This is a very book and I couldn't read the whole thing. I kept skimming the book. It's just too long.
Rating:
Summary: Colin Powell's Rules for Life
Review: This book isn't just about Powell. It's an inside look at discouraged Americans in the Vietnam jungles. One black man's indignation at not being able to order a hamburger. The hard way of life for army families. The tension of sending American soldiers off to war under your advice. Dynamics in the Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton administrations. Why the Gulf War occurred the way it did. Colin Powell's life has not been perfect, and he's the first to admit it. Those who recklessly heap praise on him are being foolish. He is, however, a role model for americans of all races. His life illustrates that by busting your behind and ignoring those who put you down, you can rise to the top. His "Rules for Life," an addendum to the book, are memorable. This book chronicles Powell's journey from his humble Harlem Banana Kelly roots to his seat as an advisor in the Oval Office. But it's more than that. It's an inside look at "the how and why" of US military interventions in the second half of the 20th century.
Rating: 
Summary: Pulling the Wool over your Eyes
Review: I just don't get this great big love affair with Colin Powell. I didn't know much about him except from CNN before I read this book, but now I just don't like him much. Basically he's a commander more interested in his troop's welfare than in accomplishing a mission. That's not so bad, you say, generals should worry about their subordinates. The problem is that his missions go awry (Somalia), his advice is often wrong (Bosnia), or he steals credit for others' accomplishments (Iraq). I don't understand why folks are so mesmerized by the fact that he's black and came from New York. Powell comes across in his own book as ambitious, duplicitous, self-serving. The consummate inside-the-beltway bureaucrat.
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