10 books that take readers inside the lives of American leaders

The Hill may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.

Whether you’ve been saving up for summer reading or have an endless craving to consume books, Barnes & Noble is a one-stop shop for many of us. Featuring an amazing array of options and providing comprehensive bookseller reviews and recommendations, it’s an ideal destination to discover your next favorite read.

While there are so many departments to browse while exploring a store online or in person, these days it’s difficult to ignore the intrigue surrounding American leadership and the mechanisms that can cause a singular decision to create a global impact.

From past presidents and rising political stars to inspirational, quintessential American journeys and historic perspectives, there is a lot to encounter. That can be a bit overwhelming so, to help get you started, here are 10 curated books that are currently available at a great price.

1. A Promised Land by Barack Obama

The United States’ 44th President takes readers inside his White House experience and what led to it, with a focus on an astounding political ascension and the experiences that played a role. Topics include Obama’s early life, initial political campaigns, presidential aspirations, and the killing of terrorist Osama bin Laden.

2. His Truth Is Marching On: John Lewis and the Power of Hope by Jon Meacham

An intimate portrait of John Lewis, who was a civil rights icon and longtime congressman prior to his death in 2020. Author Jon Meacham previously won the Pulitzer Prize for his work on American Lion, a biography of former United States President Andrew Jackson.

3. Rage by Bob Woodward

Legendary American journalist Bob Woodward provides a deep dive into Donald Trump, the United States’ 45th President, and the ramifications of his term in office. Focus spans from reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic and racial unrest, to high-level administration relationships and international diplomacy.

4. Justice, Justice Thou Shalt Pursue: A Life’s Work Fighting for a More Perfect Union by Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Less than a year after her death, this is a curation of Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s last book, exploring her legacy and pursuit for equality. Nearly three full decades of Supreme Court service make RBG among the most influential figures in an ever-evolving national law landscape.

5. Madam Speaker: Nancy Pelosi and the Lessons of Power by Susan Page

Don’t miss this definitive biography on the most powerful woman in American politics. The 52nd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi has served in Congress on behalf of California since 1987, and her impact is detailed vividly by USA Today Washington bureau chief Susan Page.

6. The Truths We Hold: An American Journey by Kamala Harris

The United States’ first female vice president provides a compelling perspective on her path to prominence. The daughter of immigrants, Kamala Harris shares details from an upbringing that helped shape her view on American values as well as from her ascension as a California attorney general and senator.

7. Every Day Is a Gift by Tammy Duckworth

A United States senator and Army combat veteran, Tammy Duckworth shares an incredible story, and it’s one that is sure to inspire readers of all ages. Prior to entering politics and becoming an Illinois senator, she dealt with a double leg amputation as a result of injuries suffered in the Iraq War.

8. Promises to Keep by Joe Biden

Thirteen years before he won the election and became the United States’ 46th President, Joe Biden published this book during his 2008 presidential campaign. Biden, who went on to become a two-term vice president under Barack Obama, details his youthful years, the 1972 car accident that killed his wife and their daughter, and an up-and-down political path.

9. Persist by Elizabeth Warren

Massachusetts senator and 2020 presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren is viewed by many as a beacon of hope within the American progressive movement. Her agenda and ambition have led to interesting relationships across Washington, D.C., and bold ideas for economic evolution. This new release covers a lot of ground.

10. Zero Fail: The Rise and Fall of the Secret Service by Carol Leonnig

Carol Leonnig, a Pulitzer Prize winner and longtime investigative journalist with the Washington Post, penned this enlightening novel on the realities facing America’s Secret Service. This detailed account features fallout from the Kennedy assassination and reaches up to the January 6th insurrection. 

Pick up these books and thousands of others at Barnes & Noble online.