Front Row Seat: A Photographic Portrait of the Presidency of George W. Bush

Focus on American History

by Eric Draper, George W. Bush (Foreword)

America’s forty-third president, George W. Bush, presided over eight of the most dramatic years in recent history, from the 9/11 attacks early in his administration to the worldwide economic crisis of 2008. By his side, recording every event from the momentous to the intimate, was his personal White House photographer, Eric Draper. From a collection of nearly one million photographs, Draper has selected more than one hundred images of President Bush that portray both the public figure and the private man. Front Row Seat presents a compelling, behind-the-scenes view of the presidency of George W. Bush. Through Draper’s lens, we follow Bush through moments of crisis that called for strong leadership, such as 9/11; emotional meetings with troops in war zones, wounded soldiers at home, and Katrina survivors; and happy, relaxed times with his wife Laura, daughters Barbara and Jenna, and parents President George H. W. and Barbara Bush. We also see Bush at work within his inner circle of trusted advisors, including Vice President Richard Cheney, National Security Advisor and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. Capturing moments that reveal the essence of the man, Front Row Seat is an irreplaceable portrait of George W. Bush.

Genres: History

240 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2013

Reviews

[Margaret Metz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great pictures! It brought back so many memories of all the things that happened during his presidency - and the things that have changed since.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great view into President Bush's administration. Almost moved me to tears.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only way this book could’ve been better is if they included the caption info on the page with the photo, instead of at the end of the book. Otherwise I loved it!

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. George W. Bush was not my favorite President, but these photos and commentary helped me to see him as an individual, a husband, father and son - part of a family. The media shows us pretty much only the political version of any President. I am grateful to have this introduction to President Bush from a different perspective. The photos are taken during his time as President, they capture the emotional side of the job.

[William · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful photos, but what isn't shown is almost more fascinating.

[Ariste Egan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great pictorial overview of Bush's presidency.