My American Journey: An Autobiography

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Summary: Reassures you that some in gov't still have a clue
Review: Captivating. Gen. Colin Powell tells you of his life; from his humble beginnings to his audiences with Presidents, Queens, Kings and others in power. Until I read this book the way our government works was a mystery to me. After reading it I am relieved to find out that there are still people there who care about what happens to this country, and the average person. Colin Powell may have been a military man working in Washington, but his roots gave him some insights as to what needed to be done. The American dream actually is still alive and well. This book should be on everyones reading list

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Summary: Hard work, perseverence, duty and honor equall Colin Powell.
Review: In reading General Powell's account of his life, I am struck by the very real possibilities our country provides its' citizens. I found the book to be a blueprint for success for those who have dreams and goals. The General's presentation of his life, with universally know historical markers along the way, is a delight to read. I found myself looking back to my own formative years wishing I could have had the drive for success that Powell has exhibited throughtout his life in general, and his career in particular. I would recommend this book to any young adult who wants to read about the virtues of hard work, vision and perseverence. But I recommend it to all Americans who take pride in the achievements of their leaders

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Summary: An Excellent Handbook Of Leadership
Review: A great handbook on what it takes to be a leader. Through examples his example of good leadership and the examples of those he served with Gen. Powell teaches what is takes to help others the be there best. He shows that it does not matter where you start from you can always acheive what you want to accomplish

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Summary: He's lived an interesting life and written a FANTASTIC book!
Review: This book deserves praise on so many different levels. Powell has told a wonderful story about his life, but that's what an autobiography is supposed to do. He has given us many of his opinions and insights into the Washington political and military culture, but that's what everyone expected him to do. He has also provided us with a readable and thoroughly enjoyable modern social history. This is what makes the book a "must read." This book is not a dry historical text. It is nostalgic or new, culturally, politically and militarily, depending on the reader's experiences. For example, Powell's story of driving through the South, alone, during the height of America's racial and civil unrest will undoubtedly cause some readers to stop and think about related events in their own lives. However, for younger readers the passage may be more of an educational awakening. Either way, all readers will be touched. The reason this book succeeds is because Powell does not only what is necessary or expected, but what is interesting as well. And he does it in a down-to-earth, conversational way. This book is for anyone of any age, political party, race or occupation. This book is for anyone who wants to learn not only about Colin Powell and his "American Journey," but also about OUR American journey.

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Summary: Fascinating autobiography of a man who should be president.
Review: Colin Powell's autobiography is a testament to the fact that the "American Dream" is possible to anyone willing to work hard and deal with life head-on. While co-written with Joseph E. Persico, the book has the feel of General Powell just telling his story directly to the reader, without embellishment. A must-read for people sick of the pre-packaged bios produced for so many celebrities.

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Summary: Great American, Yes; Great Book, No
Review: RE: AUDIO TAPE VERSION READ BY POWELL. I am a Colin Powell admirer but a definitive biography would better be told by a skilled independent writer, and after more "chapters" in his life are complete. Powell may indeed be a man of few faults but we can't be sure of that from his own words. I disagree however with reviewers who postulate that Powell has puffed-up his own accomplishments, on the contrary he's excessively modest. Rising to the highest position in the most powerful military in world history (and now to US Sec. of State) without benefit of a West Point education & connections describes a truly extraordinary individual. And far from savaging his detractors and the many incompetants he must have encountered along the way, Powell offers only a few token, and generally mild, criticisms. This book displays insight into Powell's background, development and beliefs but sidesteps tough questions of who screwed up and when. In that sense it is highly Politic - burns no bridges - and gives one hope that Powell may yet consider an Eisenhower-like leap to the highest civilian office.