Yeahhhh, as soon as A promised land by Barack Obama came out, I had to buy it. Honestly, I did not only buy the hardcover edition, but also the audiobook. I mean, what a soothing voice this former president has! Last year I read  and listened to Becoming by his wife Michelle Obama. I really loved her story. Did I enjoy his story as well? Find out below!

The book cover

A riveting, deeply personal account of history in the making-from the president who inspired us to believe in the power of democracy

In the stirring, highly anticipated first volume of his presidential memoirs, Barack Obama tells the story of his improbable odyssey from young man searching for his identity to leader of the free world, describing in strikingly personal detail both his political education and the landmark moments of the first term of his historic presidency-a time of dramatic transformation and turmoil.

My first impression of A promised land

Oh gosh, I could listen to his voice for hours and hours! The only thing is that I get distracted really easily. This means I miss a lot of everything being said. That’s why I have the paper book as well. Switching between listening and reading works for me. It’s interesting to have a look inside the former president’s life.

The story

A promised land tells a part of Barack’s Obama story. From the time he was a little boy, to his family life, to his rise as a politician and the beginning of his first presidency. I understood there will be more parts because this 768 page book wasn’t enough. 😉

In the beginning of his life he wasn’t as politically inclined as you might think. However, as soon as he became a senator everything rapids. His reasoning for running for president was that the world, but also black, latino and other kids would be able to think differently about themselves and their opportunities.

He further elaborates on many aspects and events during his first term and he explains how he experienced it. For example about how he managed the financial crisis, how he managed several wars and a humanitarian operation, how republicans tried to stop any form of progress, how his family coped with life in the White House and the capture and killing of Osama bin Laden.

My opinion

A promised land was such an interesting read! Although Michelle Obama’s Becoming felt a bit more intimate, this book does give you a closer look into his life.

The presidency is not an easy job, of course that kind of goes without saying. But how he handled it is pretty inspiring. Especially when you read about how many different difficult situations he had to be involved in all at once, while being opposed by either Republicans, foreign governments or other parties. He is very respectable, that much can be acknowledged no matter your political preference.

Conclusion of A promised land

This is a must-read for anyone who is interested in politics. Even if you do not agree with him politically, he is very inspiring. Also, his voice is very soothing somehow, so if you like audiobooks, definitely listen to it!

Verdict