Portrait of a President

By: William Manchester

Narrated by: Joe Barrett

An up-close look at John F. Kennedy by one of his closest confidants, a New York Times best-selling biographer

Written by a prize-winning historian and biographer of such giants as Winston S. Churchill and Douglas MacArthur, this intimately detailed account provides a rare personal glimpse into the emotions behind the Kennedy administration - from the elation of victory to the frustrating challenges facing a young president at a pivotal turning point in US history.

Originally published in 1962 - before the assassination of JFK - Portrait of a President is William Manchester’s first biography of the 35th president of the United States. In addition to firsthand encounters with JFK, the biography draws from over 40 interviews conducted in the first year of his presidency. In speaking with those closest to the commander-in-chief, both in his administration and his family, Manchester captures a complete portrait of one of the most highly regarded figures of the 20th century.

This edition includes a new introduction and epilogue written by Manchester in the aftermath of November 1963, adding to the mythos by documenting not just how President Kennedy lived but also the legacy he left behind.

©1962, 1967 by William Manchester; © renewed 1990 by William Manchester (P)2020 by Blackstone Publishing

Extraordinary

Whatever anyone wants to believe about JFK, Manchester’s description makes it hard to deny that John Kennedy brought an energy and spirit to the White House not seen before or after his time. After reading Manchester’s book this reader does not believe we will see such a young President again in this lifetime.