Edward Kennedy spent his entire life in the spotlight. He was part of a famous family and went on to spend forty years as a U.S. Senator. When he learned that he had a brain tumor, he decided it was time to write his own memoir. I especially enjoyed the early parts of the book as he described his family while he was growing up. He was fifteen years younger than his brother, Jack, so he was only a young teen when Jack was first elected to the House. He also describes his hero worship when Jack returned as a war hero. He shared his families many joys and also their deep sorrows.
True Compass is a nice, clean version of Ted Kennedy's life. He was honest in admitting many of his failings. Still, it seemed that he made a point to be kind when it came to discussing his family. He never speaks of his family members in a way that is disrespectful. In that way, he may have omitted some of the details. He described how losing his brother, Bobby, not long after his brother, Jack, was killed was devastating for him. He spoke of his concerns for his own life and his reckless behavior. His descriptions of Chappequidick may not be entirely accurate but again, he admitted to poor judgement.
Most of all, it was wonderful to learn of Ted Kennedy's happy years with his wife, Vicki. He also wrote very fondly of his children and her children. This may be a whitewashed version of history in some ways but it was a very enjoyable insight into a very interesting man.
Rating - 5 stars
No comments:
Post a Comment