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Unfettered
An upcoming book to be published by Penguin Random House.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published November 11, 2025
101 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
November 28, 2025
Beyond the bizarreness of running for and serving in public office; this book takes an open, honest look at the cost of ignoring potentially serious medical issues. It also gives an upfront look at depression. If it helps even one person..............
December 21, 2025
A lot of people will likely prejudge based on party affiliation. Politics aside, I thought this was a great story and demonstrated overcoming obstacles to land on one of the biggest stages in politics. His story is unique and I appreciate his willingness to discuss his own mental health journey. I have read the reviews and it’s definitely not for everyone due to his role in American politics, but I believe if you’re able to put politics to the side and see it as an up and coming story for any other profession, it has some gems that can be taken from it.
November 16, 2025
Loved this story. Learned a lot of things about the Senator. I don’t agree with him on all the issues but am impressed by the fact that he doesn’t hold to party lines and isn’t afraid to be honest. Until this book, I was not aware of his stance on illegal immigration. I am surprised and pleased to see that he had the courage to publicly disagree with the far left. Previously, I had misgivings about his suitability for office but I’ve changed my opinion after hearing him explain in detail. Also, I enjoyed learning more about the history of Western Pennsylvania and Braddock. This review is from a registered Republican and former Pennsylvania resident. I’m proud of you, Senator.
July 31, 2025
Horrible
November 30, 2025
I didn't know what to expect when I bought this book but since he is one of our Pennsylvania senators I was very interested in what he had to say. I wasn't aware of all the things he went through during the campaign and right after he won. I am not the same political party but I have come to respect him as one of the level headed reasonable members of the opposite party. I will be interested to see if he runs for re-election.
November 29, 2025
Unc never explains why he's so bald
November 26, 2025
What you see is what you get. It evokes honesty and gets to the point. John talks about his life candidly and I’m happy for him that he wrote this book. It’s a decent book and there are really powerful moments. This is much closer to Hillbilly Elegy than it is to 107 Days. John Fetterman is a good man and politics is only part of us.
November 13, 2025
Most books written (usually ghostly) by politicians are of little substance sticking to proscribed lines of their brand and this is no exception. However, there is an additional strangeness to this as it really does make one question whether Fetterman should be serving as a US Senator given his self-described depressive bouts. Yes, Lincoln's are well documented as well, but he wasn't in office describing them for all to view. Aside from various groups having their beefs with his statements, it's been so disappointing given his potential to become a working class champion. One learns very little of that in this tome as the inward journey only leaves the reader and voter to be more wary than comforted.
July 30, 2025
me john fetterman me write book
November 14, 2025
Bravery at its finest
John Fetterman is a brave hero personally and professionally. I am a proud Pennsylvanian having him in the Senste! Thank you John!
John Fetterman is a brave hero personally and professionally. I am a proud Pennsylvanian having him in the Senste! Thank you John!
January 6, 2026
Although I don’t always agree with his politics, when I heard about his book, I immediately wanted to read it. I was intrigued to learn more about Senator Fetterman, and what molded him to be the person he is today, moving to the beat of his own drum in an increasingly partisan world.
John Fetterman seemed to have it all — an MBA degree, prestigious job, but something was still missing and he felt incomplete. A few defining events in his life eventually led him to run for public office, first as a mayor, and then as a Senator for his state. Along the way he would go to doctor’s appointments but then not follow up nor make the changes his doctors advised. He would experience symptoms which he ignored, until eventually suffering a stroke. He also suffered from depression despite his seemingly wonderful life. In his book he shares his experiences honestly which is quite courageous. He is so much more than just “that Senator in the hoodie and shorts.”
Perhaps someone will read this book, identify with the experiences he shares, and realize they need to seek professional help as John Fetterman did. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about him, regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum.
John Fetterman seemed to have it all — an MBA degree, prestigious job, but something was still missing and he felt incomplete. A few defining events in his life eventually led him to run for public office, first as a mayor, and then as a Senator for his state. Along the way he would go to doctor’s appointments but then not follow up nor make the changes his doctors advised. He would experience symptoms which he ignored, until eventually suffering a stroke. He also suffered from depression despite his seemingly wonderful life. In his book he shares his experiences honestly which is quite courageous. He is so much more than just “that Senator in the hoodie and shorts.”
Perhaps someone will read this book, identify with the experiences he shares, and realize they need to seek professional help as John Fetterman did. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about him, regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum.
December 3, 2025
Profoundly Enlightening!
I observed Fetterman on Fox News advocating for his new book. This was not the first occasion I had seen him there, and I have found some of his positions to be quite intriguing. Aware of his struggles with depression, I was eager to hear his perspective on the matter, prompting me to purchase his book.
I found myself able to connect with his experiences of depression and gained insight into the reasons behind my perceptions of him. As I progressed through the chapters, I could sense the empathy John held for the individuals in his community and state. It is not surprising that, in spite of the obstacles he encountered, people still chose to vote for him for the U.S. Senate.
One aspect I could have done without was the coarse language present in several chapters. Nevertheless, it was enlightening to learn about his political journey. Some Republicans may not appreciate this book. However, anyone who enjoys vacationing in Ocean City, NJ, is certainly acceptable in my view.
My preferred chapter is chapter 20. Not solely because it is the concluding chapter, but because it resonated with the essence of John Fetterman and his true character. If the remaining senators shared his sentiments, our nation would undoubtedly be the greatest in the world.
One of my cherished quotes is:
"We need to get away from the progressive and liberal notion that everything the Democrats do is right and above reproach and everything the Republicans do is wrong and evil. We need to start talking to one another. Doing so will not represent a betrayal; it will be a start to the process of America healing and finding common ground. Without this kind of communication, we are truly sunk." - Fetterman, John. Unfettered (p. 204). (Function). Kindle Edition.
Fetterman further stated:
"I’m a common sense and deeply patriotic Democrat. I believe the American way of life is sacred. My party doesn’t have an absolute monopoly on the solutions. Neither do the Republicans. I will call balls and strikes. I won’t pander or see the other side as my 'enemy.'" - Fetterman, John. Unfettered (p. 205). (Function). Kindle Edition.
Having endured a suicide attempt, I found the afterword, "A Single Rose," to be profoundly enlightening.
A lifeline extended to John, "Children need their daddy." - Fetterman, John. Unfettered (p. 209). (Function). Kindle Edition.
As a fellow author, I extend my best wishes to John Fetterman for his health, this book, and his career.
-Anthony Ordille
I observed Fetterman on Fox News advocating for his new book. This was not the first occasion I had seen him there, and I have found some of his positions to be quite intriguing. Aware of his struggles with depression, I was eager to hear his perspective on the matter, prompting me to purchase his book.
I found myself able to connect with his experiences of depression and gained insight into the reasons behind my perceptions of him. As I progressed through the chapters, I could sense the empathy John held for the individuals in his community and state. It is not surprising that, in spite of the obstacles he encountered, people still chose to vote for him for the U.S. Senate.
One aspect I could have done without was the coarse language present in several chapters. Nevertheless, it was enlightening to learn about his political journey. Some Republicans may not appreciate this book. However, anyone who enjoys vacationing in Ocean City, NJ, is certainly acceptable in my view.
My preferred chapter is chapter 20. Not solely because it is the concluding chapter, but because it resonated with the essence of John Fetterman and his true character. If the remaining senators shared his sentiments, our nation would undoubtedly be the greatest in the world.
One of my cherished quotes is:
"We need to get away from the progressive and liberal notion that everything the Democrats do is right and above reproach and everything the Republicans do is wrong and evil. We need to start talking to one another. Doing so will not represent a betrayal; it will be a start to the process of America healing and finding common ground. Without this kind of communication, we are truly sunk." - Fetterman, John. Unfettered (p. 204). (Function). Kindle Edition.
Fetterman further stated:
"I’m a common sense and deeply patriotic Democrat. I believe the American way of life is sacred. My party doesn’t have an absolute monopoly on the solutions. Neither do the Republicans. I will call balls and strikes. I won’t pander or see the other side as my 'enemy.'" - Fetterman, John. Unfettered (p. 205). (Function). Kindle Edition.
Having endured a suicide attempt, I found the afterword, "A Single Rose," to be profoundly enlightening.
A lifeline extended to John, "Children need their daddy." - Fetterman, John. Unfettered (p. 209). (Function). Kindle Edition.
As a fellow author, I extend my best wishes to John Fetterman for his health, this book, and his career.
-Anthony Ordille
November 16, 2025
this gave me such a deep appreciation for a man I voted against and probably will again. We can have differences but still respect each other. I wish more were like Fetterman in this way. Also appreciate so much his honesty concerning mental health.
January 24, 2026
The only politician worth his nuts
December 4, 2025
A warrior takes a stand!
John is a kindred spirit. He is forthright in revealing his weaknesses and from where his strength comes. As a life long Republican John and I have many differences. However, those differences almost all come from desiring a similar outcome achieving them with different methods. Our differences come from a conviction about how to reach those objectives for our nation. I commend John's willingness to reveal his illness and the difficulties he has faced and still faces. John keep up the fight.. You and I are on the same side of the mountain.
John is a kindred spirit. He is forthright in revealing his weaknesses and from where his strength comes. As a life long Republican John and I have many differences. However, those differences almost all come from desiring a similar outcome achieving them with different methods. Our differences come from a conviction about how to reach those objectives for our nation. I commend John's willingness to reveal his illness and the difficulties he has faced and still faces. John keep up the fight.. You and I are on the same side of the mountain.
January 1, 2026
It's hard to separate liking or not liking John Fetterman from liking or not liking Unfettered. I definitely admire and appreciate him more, but it does seem like he's in the wrong job.
November 23, 2025
Finished this. I'm intrigued by Fetterman. The first part of his story is truly inspiring, but by the time he runs for the Senate, he's become the classless a-hole pol he used to complain about, with his "troll patrol" and snark. Pity. I was disappointed. Optimism dashed again. It got boring toward the end. Fortunately, it's short.
January 1, 2026
I don't usually write reviews. Wasn't sure how I would feel or even like this book. But I have come to find John Fetterman an interesting person. I admit I have prejudged him. I am sorry for that. This book was a personal dive into his beliefs and perspectives and how he has delt with depression. Something a lot of us can attest to. He was transparent about how depression affected him and those around him. I give him a lot of respect for that. It's hard to express those feelings and times honestly. I find him an interesting human who is willing to be open to others. We may disagree on a lot of things but the fact that at his core he wants to make others lives better and is willing to work with others no matter what others say is what we need in this world. Thank you John Fetterman for being you and being able to disagree but still willing to work on ways we can all be better and make things better.
November 26, 2025
5 stars for honesty. 5 stars for caring. 5 stars for trying to do what is right. 5 stars for talking about mental health issues. 5 stars for loving Braddock. 5 stars for marrying Gisele. 5 stars for remembering kids need a daddy.
November 24, 2025
Thought provocoking!
I, as so many Americans, misjudged this man,without knowing him and who he really is. After reading this well written book, I owe him the biggest apology possible. I truly hate what the media and ultra left in his own party have done to him. He has been to hell and back. He is speaking common sense, and being condemned by his on party and They are doing their evil best to undermine him and trying to run another candidate for his seat. They have no idea who they are dealing with. God Bless him and his family and grant them peace and protection.
I, as so many Americans, misjudged this man,without knowing him and who he really is. After reading this well written book, I owe him the biggest apology possible. I truly hate what the media and ultra left in his own party have done to him. He has been to hell and back. He is speaking common sense, and being condemned by his on party and They are doing their evil best to undermine him and trying to run another candidate for his seat. They have no idea who they are dealing with. God Bless him and his family and grant them peace and protection.
December 7, 2025
RICK “SHAQ” GOLDSTEIN SAYS: STANDING ALONE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE AISLE… IS A BIG MAN (NOT BASED ON HEIGHT… BUT BASED ON INTEGRITY!).. THAT SHARES HIS LOWEST POINTS IN LIFE… AND STANDS UP FOR WHAT HE BELIEVES… REGARDLESS OF WHO… IS… OR… ISN’T… BY HIS SIDE!
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This totally unfiltered autobiography by Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman… is a short… unrepentant… heartfelt… story… of a Pennsylvania native… who pulls back the cover… on anything and everything… that any person… so-called journalist… competitive politician… or any human sleaze-ball… that has the potential to peek out from under a rock… could… and would… use against him… and pre-emptively lays it out in the bright sunshine… for all to see… rather than the aforementioned sleaze-balls… having the opportunity… to pull it out like an infested bludgeon.
From his childhood with nary a friend… and people making fun of his looks… to his deep seeded depression… and self-hatred… to his love of Pennsylvania’s history…along with many solitary walks through the hills… over bridges… enjoying the scenery… and butterflies. Fetterman graduates college… and starts a career in the insurance business. But his innate humanity and kindness… leads him to devote his life to helping underprivileged people… whether lonely struggling children…or parents. And all this despite him constantly having an internal battle with self-demeaning thoughts… and suicide. The author bravely brings this out for the world to see… if but for the chance to help one person… get help… and realize they’re not alone. Fetterman is quite aware… that lying… non-fact-checking… journalists… and politicians… will use this against him… and many already have.
He becomes mayor of Braddock for thirteen years… in a mostly black impoverished community. He is blessed with a loving… wife… children… and family… though he knows his mental issues are causing them untold harm and anguish. Prior to his ascendancy to Senator… he becomes Lieutenant Governor… and… I would not expect to see many chummy moments with Governor Shapiro… as Fetterman’s delightful… tell-it-as-it-is personality… after describing major conflicts with Shapiro… when they served together on the Pennsylvania Pardons Board… “I CALLED SHAPIRO A “F*CKG ASSHOLE—NOT REALIZING THE MICROPHONE WAS STILL ON.”
There is enormous depth in the telling of the stroke… heart issues… untold depression… during… and after… his spectacular victory for Senator over Dr. Oz. The enormous emotional and physical rock bottom that John reached… and languished in…including actually dying for seconds. So much of the facts revealed here… were hidden from the public at the time. But Fetterman shares every lower than low… for two main reasons… to help anyone that might be afraid to seek help… and also… so no lowlife journalist or politician can use it against him… though they have already tried.
With bad advice… Fetterman after the stroke … agreed very half-heartedly to a debate with Dr. Oz… having to use faulty sub-caption devices. Despite a dismally sad performance… John still won the election. And as far as Dr. Oz… Fetterman makes clear… that Oz has been fined millions of dollars by the government… been removed from medical boards… and basically been proven to be a “snake-oil” salesman. And as far as any warm bedside manner… Fetterman writes:
“DR. OZ HAS NEVER LET ME EVER FORGET HAVING A STROKE. LET ME ASK YOU, WHAT KIND OF DOCTOR THAT HAS SOMEBODY THAT WAS SICK, WANTS (*THEM) TO STAY SICK? BY JANUARY, I’M GONNA BE FEELING EVEN BETTER, BUT HE WILL STILL BE A FRAUD.”
To me… Fetterman… strongly speaks for the TRUE-EVERY DAY-HARD-WORKING-AMERICAN! He is vehemently against all these media reports based on *COWARDLY-SPINELESS-OFF-THE RECORD-COMMENTS* that is the absolute heart of THIS DISEASE OF FAKE NEWS!
“POLITICIAANS ARE TOO COWARDLY TO PUT THEIR NAMES TO ANYTHING, LEAKING AND DISHING DIRT UNDER THE CLOAK OF OFF THE RECORD. THE MEDIA SHOULD NO LONGER ALLOW ANY POLITICIAN TO SPEAK TO THEM OFF THE RECORD. ***PUT UP OR SHUT THE F*** UP.”
(NOW TO ME… THAT’S A TRUE MAN OF THE PEOPLE SPEAKING!!)
Since becoming Senator… John hasn’t hesitated to take major UNFETTERED stands… on what is to me… the biggest issues. And when he has taken these stands… he has been literally deserted by his current party! And he unflinchingly takes them over and over again… it doesn’t matter what freaking news station he’s on either. His stands on the right of Israel to strongly defend them self… the backing of America’s bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities… the fact that before Trump’s current term… the borders were wide open… with the largest welcome mat out in the history of the world… and John says the closing was tremendous and had to be done! He also… dripping with common sense… says no one should be called Nazi’s… Fascists… nor celebrating an innocent American’s death or assassination.
The complete desertion of Fetterman’s beliefs… by the Democratic Party… reminds me of my favorite Bob Seger quote from his classic song AGAINST THE WIND…
***SURROUNDED BY STRANGERS I THOUGHT WERE MY FRIENDS.***
John sums it up eloquently:
SOMEHOW, THE DEMOCRATIC PARY HAD LOST THE SUPPORT OF THE REGULAR JOES WHO WERE ONCE ITS BACKBONE. WE BECAME THE PARTY OF THE ELITES, ONE THAT HAD LOST TOUCH WITH ITS BASE. ALSO, THE CONTINUED SPEECH AND POLICIES AGAINST MEN HAVE NOT BEEN WITHOUT CONSEQUENCES. IF MEN ARE FORCED TO CHOOSE BETWEEN PICKING THEIR PARTY OR KEEPING THEIR BALLS, MOST MEN ARE GOING TO CHOOSE THEIR BALLS.”
From this side of the aisle… I look at Senator Fetterman… and see a brave man… a man of true integrity… a man… like all of us with mistakes… and frailties… on our shoulders like a cloak… but every person has the choice… to use that cloak to help warm and protect humanity… or choke them…
John is using his well-worn-cloak… as the good L-rd intended!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This totally unfiltered autobiography by Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman… is a short… unrepentant… heartfelt… story… of a Pennsylvania native… who pulls back the cover… on anything and everything… that any person… so-called journalist… competitive politician… or any human sleaze-ball… that has the potential to peek out from under a rock… could… and would… use against him… and pre-emptively lays it out in the bright sunshine… for all to see… rather than the aforementioned sleaze-balls… having the opportunity… to pull it out like an infested bludgeon.
From his childhood with nary a friend… and people making fun of his looks… to his deep seeded depression… and self-hatred… to his love of Pennsylvania’s history…along with many solitary walks through the hills… over bridges… enjoying the scenery… and butterflies. Fetterman graduates college… and starts a career in the insurance business. But his innate humanity and kindness… leads him to devote his life to helping underprivileged people… whether lonely struggling children…or parents. And all this despite him constantly having an internal battle with self-demeaning thoughts… and suicide. The author bravely brings this out for the world to see… if but for the chance to help one person… get help… and realize they’re not alone. Fetterman is quite aware… that lying… non-fact-checking… journalists… and politicians… will use this against him… and many already have.
He becomes mayor of Braddock for thirteen years… in a mostly black impoverished community. He is blessed with a loving… wife… children… and family… though he knows his mental issues are causing them untold harm and anguish. Prior to his ascendancy to Senator… he becomes Lieutenant Governor… and… I would not expect to see many chummy moments with Governor Shapiro… as Fetterman’s delightful… tell-it-as-it-is personality… after describing major conflicts with Shapiro… when they served together on the Pennsylvania Pardons Board… “I CALLED SHAPIRO A “F*CKG ASSHOLE—NOT REALIZING THE MICROPHONE WAS STILL ON.”
There is enormous depth in the telling of the stroke… heart issues… untold depression… during… and after… his spectacular victory for Senator over Dr. Oz. The enormous emotional and physical rock bottom that John reached… and languished in…including actually dying for seconds. So much of the facts revealed here… were hidden from the public at the time. But Fetterman shares every lower than low… for two main reasons… to help anyone that might be afraid to seek help… and also… so no lowlife journalist or politician can use it against him… though they have already tried.
With bad advice… Fetterman after the stroke … agreed very half-heartedly to a debate with Dr. Oz… having to use faulty sub-caption devices. Despite a dismally sad performance… John still won the election. And as far as Dr. Oz… Fetterman makes clear… that Oz has been fined millions of dollars by the government… been removed from medical boards… and basically been proven to be a “snake-oil” salesman. And as far as any warm bedside manner… Fetterman writes:
“DR. OZ HAS NEVER LET ME EVER FORGET HAVING A STROKE. LET ME ASK YOU, WHAT KIND OF DOCTOR THAT HAS SOMEBODY THAT WAS SICK, WANTS (*THEM) TO STAY SICK? BY JANUARY, I’M GONNA BE FEELING EVEN BETTER, BUT HE WILL STILL BE A FRAUD.”
To me… Fetterman… strongly speaks for the TRUE-EVERY DAY-HARD-WORKING-AMERICAN! He is vehemently against all these media reports based on *COWARDLY-SPINELESS-OFF-THE RECORD-COMMENTS* that is the absolute heart of THIS DISEASE OF FAKE NEWS!
“POLITICIAANS ARE TOO COWARDLY TO PUT THEIR NAMES TO ANYTHING, LEAKING AND DISHING DIRT UNDER THE CLOAK OF OFF THE RECORD. THE MEDIA SHOULD NO LONGER ALLOW ANY POLITICIAN TO SPEAK TO THEM OFF THE RECORD. ***PUT UP OR SHUT THE F*** UP.”
(NOW TO ME… THAT’S A TRUE MAN OF THE PEOPLE SPEAKING!!)
Since becoming Senator… John hasn’t hesitated to take major UNFETTERED stands… on what is to me… the biggest issues. And when he has taken these stands… he has been literally deserted by his current party! And he unflinchingly takes them over and over again… it doesn’t matter what freaking news station he’s on either. His stands on the right of Israel to strongly defend them self… the backing of America’s bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities… the fact that before Trump’s current term… the borders were wide open… with the largest welcome mat out in the history of the world… and John says the closing was tremendous and had to be done! He also… dripping with common sense… says no one should be called Nazi’s… Fascists… nor celebrating an innocent American’s death or assassination.
The complete desertion of Fetterman’s beliefs… by the Democratic Party… reminds me of my favorite Bob Seger quote from his classic song AGAINST THE WIND…
***SURROUNDED BY STRANGERS I THOUGHT WERE MY FRIENDS.***
John sums it up eloquently:
SOMEHOW, THE DEMOCRATIC PARY HAD LOST THE SUPPORT OF THE REGULAR JOES WHO WERE ONCE ITS BACKBONE. WE BECAME THE PARTY OF THE ELITES, ONE THAT HAD LOST TOUCH WITH ITS BASE. ALSO, THE CONTINUED SPEECH AND POLICIES AGAINST MEN HAVE NOT BEEN WITHOUT CONSEQUENCES. IF MEN ARE FORCED TO CHOOSE BETWEEN PICKING THEIR PARTY OR KEEPING THEIR BALLS, MOST MEN ARE GOING TO CHOOSE THEIR BALLS.”
From this side of the aisle… I look at Senator Fetterman… and see a brave man… a man of true integrity… a man… like all of us with mistakes… and frailties… on our shoulders like a cloak… but every person has the choice… to use that cloak to help warm and protect humanity… or choke them…
John is using his well-worn-cloak… as the good L-rd intended!
December 8, 2025
Not your normal political puffery
When a politician writes an autobiography, one expects puffery and a focus on their imagined achievements. Instead, Fetterman’s book shares his actual experiences, ups and downs, with clear talk about his stroke and struggle with depression. It feels so much more real than your average political dreck. Amidst the personal challenges, he speaks of the possibilities of the USA and how we can work to bring that possibility to fruition. His concerns about the mental health of the reader is also beautiful.
When a politician writes an autobiography, one expects puffery and a focus on their imagined achievements. Instead, Fetterman’s book shares his actual experiences, ups and downs, with clear talk about his stroke and struggle with depression. It feels so much more real than your average political dreck. Amidst the personal challenges, he speaks of the possibilities of the USA and how we can work to bring that possibility to fruition. His concerns about the mental health of the reader is also beautiful.
December 21, 2025
Overall "Unfettered" was a very good read. Fetterman is by no means a genius writer-- but he is genuine, honest, and open in his book. His path in both his personal life and political world is interesting to follow; Fetterman acts as the everyday person as he takes a sharp cut into mental health stigmas from his own perspectives and courageously writes without censoring.
It's refreshing to see a politician open to change each day and able to collaborate with vastly different canidates. It also concludes on a bright note, I look forward to viewing more of his work.
It's refreshing to see a politician open to change each day and able to collaborate with vastly different canidates. It also concludes on a bright note, I look forward to viewing more of his work.
December 21, 2025
As someone who takes great pride in having grown up in Western Pennsylvania (Carnegie and McKees Rocks), I know first hand how special that area and the people that live there are. Pittsburgh and its surrounding suburbs are filled with blue collar folks that worked hard and did the right thing, only to have their livelihoods and towns left on the brink. John Fetterman knows what this is like and has fought his entire life to change things for the better, from Mayor of Braddock, PA all the way to a Senator for Pennsylvania.
Fetterman has taken flak for his stands over his political career, but his common sense, honesty and desire to make things better for his constituents comes through loud and clear in this memoir. He also gives an unflinching look at the physical and mental health challenges he has faced, which I think many readers can relate to. For me, Fetterman has become someone I look up to and respect, whether or not I agreed with him.
While reading this, I was struck by how much of his heart is truly tied to Pittsburgh. Unless you are from there, you really cannot fathom how much growing up in that city influences and informs who you are in life. While careers have pulled us away to live in other parts of the US, my husband and I are deeply connected to our hometown and owe everything we have to how we were raised and the community we grew up in; from my childhood library in Carnegie, to the museums in Oakland, to the food and people that make that city so unique. John Fetterman is one of those people and I thank him for his leadership and determination to do the right thing.
Fetterman has taken flak for his stands over his political career, but his common sense, honesty and desire to make things better for his constituents comes through loud and clear in this memoir. He also gives an unflinching look at the physical and mental health challenges he has faced, which I think many readers can relate to. For me, Fetterman has become someone I look up to and respect, whether or not I agreed with him.
While reading this, I was struck by how much of his heart is truly tied to Pittsburgh. Unless you are from there, you really cannot fathom how much growing up in that city influences and informs who you are in life. While careers have pulled us away to live in other parts of the US, my husband and I are deeply connected to our hometown and owe everything we have to how we were raised and the community we grew up in; from my childhood library in Carnegie, to the museums in Oakland, to the food and people that make that city so unique. John Fetterman is one of those people and I thank him for his leadership and determination to do the right thing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2026
This book starts, "My name is John Karl Fetterman." It doesn't get much better from there. Fetterman is your garden-variety bully, which he admits, with a big ego. He takes no accountability for anything. His size was the reason he didn't have friends, not being a bully. He had a stroke because he has a fib, and on and on. The one aspect of this book with any value, is encouragement for those seeking help for mental health problems. Which of course he has and is responsible for his inability to connect with people. He goes as far as turning the spotlight on himself when discussing the suicide of a friend, saying he considered suicide. He also takes his shot at Shapiro while he has the chance. It's more important to look like the tough guy.
I am sure that he has done good things, likely bankrolled by his father. He was a volunteer big brother, although only for 2 years, and he agreed to see his little through school when the parents passed. Sounds great, but he only worked at CHUBB for 2 years, so I'm not sure where he got the money. Probably Dad. Look, he called the book Unfettered, and I get it .. he survived a stroke and had mental health issues, but if he truly was a man of the people, you call the book Fettered, and highlight the fallibility of us all, and the grace of asking for help. That's being humble, which he is not. But I bet his father is. That's who should be writing a memoir.
The book has 4.1 stars on Goodreads somehow, but book sales are very low.
I am sure that he has done good things, likely bankrolled by his father. He was a volunteer big brother, although only for 2 years, and he agreed to see his little through school when the parents passed. Sounds great, but he only worked at CHUBB for 2 years, so I'm not sure where he got the money. Probably Dad. Look, he called the book Unfettered, and I get it .. he survived a stroke and had mental health issues, but if he truly was a man of the people, you call the book Fettered, and highlight the fallibility of us all, and the grace of asking for help. That's being humble, which he is not. But I bet his father is. That's who should be writing a memoir.
The book has 4.1 stars on Goodreads somehow, but book sales are very low.
January 12, 2026
Senator Fetterman and I are on different sides of some political and social issues, but agree about others. I am one of those people who felt bad for Pennsylvanians who had to chose between him and Oz, because it seemed to me a lose-lose choice. I have surprisingly been in agreement with many things that Fetterman has voted for and stood up for since he took office.
I haven't done my own research, so I am taking what the Senator wrote in this book as accurate. I'm dismayed, but not shocked, that the media portrayed him inaccurately and followed-up by attacking him and his family during the senatorial campaign and his lengthy hospitalization. I respect the convictions he has and I give him a LOT of respect for being open about his struggles with his physical and mental health. I found this book to be an interesting read, especially when he discussed The Debate and "Good night, everyone." This book is only 250 pages and I think that's about right for his personality, as he describes it. I feel like I better understand who he is and the decisions/votes he makes even if I don't agree with those (which is the actual point of reading non-fiction: understanding).
I recommend giving this a read. If you're cynical about politicians (like me), try really hard to shut down that part of your brain and just take in the words, thoughts, and emotions portrayed on the pages.
I haven't done my own research, so I am taking what the Senator wrote in this book as accurate. I'm dismayed, but not shocked, that the media portrayed him inaccurately and followed-up by attacking him and his family during the senatorial campaign and his lengthy hospitalization. I respect the convictions he has and I give him a LOT of respect for being open about his struggles with his physical and mental health. I found this book to be an interesting read, especially when he discussed The Debate and "Good night, everyone." This book is only 250 pages and I think that's about right for his personality, as he describes it. I feel like I better understand who he is and the decisions/votes he makes even if I don't agree with those (which is the actual point of reading non-fiction: understanding).
I recommend giving this a read. If you're cynical about politicians (like me), try really hard to shut down that part of your brain and just take in the words, thoughts, and emotions portrayed on the pages.
January 6, 2026
Unfettered is a candid and surprisingly warm memoir that traces John Fetterman’s path from small town roots to public service in Pennsylvania. The book works best when it focuses on place and people. Fetterman writes with plainspoken honesty about Braddock, about showing up for struggling communities, and about the belief that government should not forget those who feel left behind. His stories feel grounded and human, not polished for political gain, and they offer a clear picture of why he approaches politics the way he does.
Even though I am a Republican and I differ strongly with John Fetterman on issues like abortion and LGBTQ policy, I still found a lot to respect here. As a fellow Pennsylvanian, I recognize the towns, the attitudes, and the sense of loyalty to neighbors that shape his worldview. I agree with him on the importance of economic fairness, dignity of work, and the idea that leaders should be accessible and authentic.
What stood out most is his willingness to be open about mistakes, health struggles, and doubts. That vulnerability makes the book feel less like a campaign pitch and more like an honest reflection on service, resilience, and caring deeply about the Commonwealth we share.
Even though I am a Republican and I differ strongly with John Fetterman on issues like abortion and LGBTQ policy, I still found a lot to respect here. As a fellow Pennsylvanian, I recognize the towns, the attitudes, and the sense of loyalty to neighbors that shape his worldview. I agree with him on the importance of economic fairness, dignity of work, and the idea that leaders should be accessible and authentic.
What stood out most is his willingness to be open about mistakes, health struggles, and doubts. That vulnerability makes the book feel less like a campaign pitch and more like an honest reflection on service, resilience, and caring deeply about the Commonwealth we share.
February 4, 2026
For some reason I felt compelled to read this book. Maybe because Fetterman seems to be one of the few politicans with his head screwed on straight? (Ironic, considering his mental health history.)
Of course the book is self-serving--has a politician ever written a memoir that wasn't? Of course he's still wrong about plenty of major issues. But Fetterman is clearly not indebted to a bunch of donors in San Francisco or Manhattan. He actually seems to possess a decent level of common sense--shocking, I know, in today's Congress.
I also appreciated Fetterman's openness about his depression right after his winning the PA senate seat. In some sense I can sympathize, though never to that level. I do think it probably would have been wise for him to drop out of the race, due to his stroke and ensuing communication problems--even if hindsight shows that he eventually recovered sufficiently to serve. That's not a risk that should have been taken, however.
Nevertheless, the democrat party could use more Fettermans, not less. This idea of running a pro-Hamas sort of candidate in a primary is absurd. I'd say this would be a good deal: the Senate gets more people like Fetterman, and Fetterman can get some better clothes like a decent senator.
Of course the book is self-serving--has a politician ever written a memoir that wasn't? Of course he's still wrong about plenty of major issues. But Fetterman is clearly not indebted to a bunch of donors in San Francisco or Manhattan. He actually seems to possess a decent level of common sense--shocking, I know, in today's Congress.
I also appreciated Fetterman's openness about his depression right after his winning the PA senate seat. In some sense I can sympathize, though never to that level. I do think it probably would have been wise for him to drop out of the race, due to his stroke and ensuing communication problems--even if hindsight shows that he eventually recovered sufficiently to serve. That's not a risk that should have been taken, however.
Nevertheless, the democrat party could use more Fettermans, not less. This idea of running a pro-Hamas sort of candidate in a primary is absurd. I'd say this would be a good deal: the Senate gets more people like Fetterman, and Fetterman can get some better clothes like a decent senator.
February 13, 2026
I listened to this book. The narration was good, very appropriate and easy to understand. John Fetterman narrated the introduction, and the last chapter, which I always like. Also, hearing his voice, and how he still struggles from the stroke, lends to the authenticity of the content. When I first became aware of John Fetterman, I freely admit, I was not impressed with him. After the stroke, when I heard him, speak, I had tremendous compassion for him, but admit that I thought he had absolutely no business continuing to run for the Senate. I really thought to myself that poor guy needs a lot of time and a lot of help and a lot of privacy. I have come to really admire him over the past year or two. I appreciate and respect his stance on numerous issues, and even more importantly, the fact that he seems more than willing to stand up for things he believes in, and seems rooted in common sense, it’s shocking and admirable in today’s world. I also really respected his honesty and fourth brightness about his mental health struggles. I still wish she would dress up when he goes to public forums, but in terms of personality and integrity, the world needs more people like him.
January 18, 2026
I was drawn to this book by local interest as someone who moved to Pittsburgh right at the time that John Fetterman was running for office. At that time, he was running a very uncommon campaign as someone who didn’t really fit the image or stereotypical parameters of a senator, and who soon earned a national profile.
This book is unusual as I feel that he harbors on certain areas, including moments of struggle during his campaign, alongside mental health issues. At the same time, I feel, as the NYT review has also said, he doesn’t say much about the work he has done as a senator or what he stands for. So, I’m not 100% sure of the reasoning in publishing this book. It is averagely written and, as I presumed, had a ghostwriter.
This book is unusual as I feel that he harbors on certain areas, including moments of struggle during his campaign, alongside mental health issues. At the same time, I feel, as the NYT review has also said, he doesn’t say much about the work he has done as a senator or what he stands for. So, I’m not 100% sure of the reasoning in publishing this book. It is averagely written and, as I presumed, had a ghostwriter.
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