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United: Thoughts on Finding Common Ground and Advancing the Common Good
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A passionate new voice in American politics, United States Senator Cory Booker makes the case that the virtues of empathy, responsibility, and action must guide our nation toward a brighter future.
Raised in northern New Jersey, Cory Booker went to Stanford University on a football scholarship, accepted a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University, then studied at Yale Law School. Graduating from Yale, his options were limitless.
He chose public service.
He chose to move to a rough neighborhood in Newark, New Jersey, where he worked as a tenants’ rights lawyer before winning a seat on the City Council. In 2006, he was elected mayor, and for more than seven years he was the public face of an American city that had gone decades with too little positive national attention and investment. In 2013, Booker became the first African American elected to represent New Jersey in the U.S. Senate.
In United, Cory Booker draws on personal experience to issue a stirring call to reorient our nation and our politics around the principles of compassion and solidarity. He speaks of rising above despair to engage with hope, pursuing our shared mission, and embracing our common destiny.
Here is his account of his own political education, the moments—some entertaining, some heartbreaking, all of them enlightening—that have shaped his civic vision. Here are the lessons Booker learned from the remarkable people who inspired him to serve, men and women whose example fueled his desire to create opportunities for others. Here also are his observations on the issues he cares about most deeply, from race and crime and the crisis of mass incarceration to economic and environmental justice.
“Hope is the active conviction that despair will never have the last word,” Booker writes in this galvanizing book. In a world where we too easily lose touch with our neighbors, he argues, we must remember that we all rise or fall together—and that we must move beyond mere tolerance for one another toward a deeper connection: love.
Praise for United
“An exceedingly good book, and an important book, and a reminder of what makes Booker an important and, through it all, a promising public figure.”—PolitickerNJ
“What sets Senator Booker’s work apart from that of similar political books is that it seeks to elevate discourse rather than bring down opponents of the opposite partisan persuasion. This is a refreshing take, one that is truly worthy of study and contemplation.”—The Huffington Post
From the Hardcover edition.
Raised in northern New Jersey, Cory Booker went to Stanford University on a football scholarship, accepted a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University, then studied at Yale Law School. Graduating from Yale, his options were limitless.
He chose public service.
He chose to move to a rough neighborhood in Newark, New Jersey, where he worked as a tenants’ rights lawyer before winning a seat on the City Council. In 2006, he was elected mayor, and for more than seven years he was the public face of an American city that had gone decades with too little positive national attention and investment. In 2013, Booker became the first African American elected to represent New Jersey in the U.S. Senate.
In United, Cory Booker draws on personal experience to issue a stirring call to reorient our nation and our politics around the principles of compassion and solidarity. He speaks of rising above despair to engage with hope, pursuing our shared mission, and embracing our common destiny.
Here is his account of his own political education, the moments—some entertaining, some heartbreaking, all of them enlightening—that have shaped his civic vision. Here are the lessons Booker learned from the remarkable people who inspired him to serve, men and women whose example fueled his desire to create opportunities for others. Here also are his observations on the issues he cares about most deeply, from race and crime and the crisis of mass incarceration to economic and environmental justice.
“Hope is the active conviction that despair will never have the last word,” Booker writes in this galvanizing book. In a world where we too easily lose touch with our neighbors, he argues, we must remember that we all rise or fall together—and that we must move beyond mere tolerance for one another toward a deeper connection: love.
Praise for United
“An exceedingly good book, and an important book, and a reminder of what makes Booker an important and, through it all, a promising public figure.”—PolitickerNJ
“What sets Senator Booker’s work apart from that of similar political books is that it seeks to elevate discourse rather than bring down opponents of the opposite partisan persuasion. This is a refreshing take, one that is truly worthy of study and contemplation.”—The Huffington Post
From the Hardcover edition.
223 pages, ebook
First published February 16, 2016
232 people are currently reading
3216 people want to read
About the author
Cory Booker
14 books79 followersCory Anthony Booker is an American politician and the junior United States Senator from New Jersey, in office since 2013. Previously he served as mayor of Newark from 2006 to 2013.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 402 reviews
June 19, 2024
UNITED is less a book and more the kindest, most generous, heart-felt thank you letter to everyone who ever touched Mr. Booker's life. His story is humble, filled with hope and truly inspiring.
This was the perfect book for me to read at the end of 2016, when it seemed that the majority of the "news" was bleak, at best. At the same time, it will also be the perfect book for me to introduce to 'my' HS seniors at the beginning of 2017. I absolutely love being able to introduce a real-life hero to these malleable minds.
This was the perfect book for me to read at the end of 2016, when it seemed that the majority of the "news" was bleak, at best. At the same time, it will also be the perfect book for me to introduce to 'my' HS seniors at the beginning of 2017. I absolutely love being able to introduce a real-life hero to these malleable minds.
March 3, 2016
This is absolutely the book you write a decade or so before you run for President. It does all the things it politically should do in order to introduce him to people who have never heard of him and answer questions about his life for those who have been following his public image for a while. If you've read Barack Obama's books, you'll recognize a lot of the same techniques for painting a picture of a flawed, but overall good man. Booker casually confirms his oft-questioned heterosexuality with an anecdote about a woman he briefly and unreasonably fell for. He explains the ineffectiveness he showed on Newark's city council, as well as Mayor Sharpe James's vendetta against him (which is effing BANANAS, btdubs). He is appropriately critical of his own ego and shortcomings. He name checks God and the Bible. He accentuates his idealism, showing how it could be a weakness at times, but ultimately pointing to how much he cares about people. Having followed Booker's life and career for a decade or so and not really needing to be persuaded of his politics and character, mostly, this was an interesting glimpse at the events and ideas that led a fairly privileged kid from the 'burbs to intentionally move to the wrong side of the tracks and become a politician. #CoryBooker4PresidentWheneverHeFeelsLikeRunning
February 22, 2016
What a GREAT read! Cory Booker is a great guy with an even more amazing story. I had no idea who he was before this book but now i feel like he's truly one of the good people in politics actually trying to make a difference. This got 5 easy stars. I'd give it more if i could. The book goes through his life from a kid to a U.S. Senator. Amazing stories were told and to be honest i can't wait to hear them again. A must read!
Read
November 21, 2016is it so wrong that I want to have his babies?
cory, marry me, my boo.
cory, marry me, my boo.
February 23, 2016
I've been a fan of Cory Booker for many years and was excited to listen to this audiobook in his own voice. Mr. Booker is such inspiration and breath of fresh air in politics and I can only hope he will be our President in the future.
March 28, 2016
This wasn’t just a book, or a story about a politician. I just read a book that was about normal people, about us. I was inspired and moved by it and I recommend you to read it too. But again, it wasn’t just a book, it was more than that.
Stephen Covey has written about a principle centered way of living, meaning a valuebased approach to everyday life. For me that is about trying your best everyday to be a little bit better than the day before. You may think this sounds idealistic. And it does. Idealism isn’t about changing the world, but about improving the every day life around you. Step by step. Start with the small things, start with your circle of influence.
I remember one Sunday morning in the park during my college years. I walked in the park, brought a book and food and drinks. I wanted some quite time and I saw a couple of families with children wishing for the same. Some joy, some fun, some sun. But the park was a complete mess from the night before. Cans of beer, garbage and empty bottles lay around the grass. I stood up and took a plastic bag to put all the garbage in. After ten minutes a lady stood up and joined me. “I was bothered by it, but it wasn’t until I saw you standing up that I thought of cleaning it myself too.”
Cory Bookers’ book is about that. About standing up and live up to your values, despite the things people expect from you. Okay, I admit, some of his stories remind me of the Wire and aren’t anywhere near the situation in which I grew up or in which I live everyday. Not even close. But that’s why I want people to see that his book isn’t about that situation at all. It doesn’t matter in what situation you live.
If you do injustice to one person, you do injustice to everyone. If you help one person, you help everyone. The world is surrounded by people who speak values, who write about a better world. But there is just only one way of making something better and that’s start doing it. You are responsible for your own enviroment, for your own community. We ourselves make and create our communities.
“For crying out loud, do something.” That’s what Booker is telling us. Roll up your sleeves and work. I was amazed by him telling that he had a great team inside and outside (!!) the city council to make his plans work. Because I’ve worked five years in politics, at the policy department, and I got frustrated by not seeing all of the legal measures work in practice. Nothing seemed to work, because there was no one making it work in practice.
Nowadays I have the opportunity to work on doing things everyday. I organize. And it really doesn’t matter what I organize. I organize people in politics at the moment. I’m trying to make a lot of Cory Bookers in this country. I want you to be one too. I want us to act, I want us to start doing. Stop talking. Stop wishing. Stop thinking about how things get better. Step up to what your community is facing. Start seeing your surroundings, your building, your family, your school, your sportsclub as your community.
The only harm that can be done to our society is through indifference. It’s not about the 10% or 20% that are doing harm to other people, it’s the majority that has to stand up. As long as we are quiet, the minority of harmdoers are taking over. And harmdoers can be real harmdoers, such as the ones Booker is writing about. But it can also be small harmdoing. Teachers who don’t pay attention to their students, parents who don’t look out for their children. Or passengers that just spill their waste on common ground, our common ground. If we don’t want the dirt, we have to clean it, is my interpretation of the message of Booker.
You can change the world on your own, by changing your world. I want to do that too. I want to change everyday. One step at the time. Treat people like you want to be treated yourself. Don’t act according to rules or ethics, act in the way that you want people to act in a perfect world. Live your life the way you wish the world should be. Try a little better every day.
Stephen Covey has written about a principle centered way of living, meaning a valuebased approach to everyday life. For me that is about trying your best everyday to be a little bit better than the day before. You may think this sounds idealistic. And it does. Idealism isn’t about changing the world, but about improving the every day life around you. Step by step. Start with the small things, start with your circle of influence.
I remember one Sunday morning in the park during my college years. I walked in the park, brought a book and food and drinks. I wanted some quite time and I saw a couple of families with children wishing for the same. Some joy, some fun, some sun. But the park was a complete mess from the night before. Cans of beer, garbage and empty bottles lay around the grass. I stood up and took a plastic bag to put all the garbage in. After ten minutes a lady stood up and joined me. “I was bothered by it, but it wasn’t until I saw you standing up that I thought of cleaning it myself too.”
Cory Bookers’ book is about that. About standing up and live up to your values, despite the things people expect from you. Okay, I admit, some of his stories remind me of the Wire and aren’t anywhere near the situation in which I grew up or in which I live everyday. Not even close. But that’s why I want people to see that his book isn’t about that situation at all. It doesn’t matter in what situation you live.
If you do injustice to one person, you do injustice to everyone. If you help one person, you help everyone. The world is surrounded by people who speak values, who write about a better world. But there is just only one way of making something better and that’s start doing it. You are responsible for your own enviroment, for your own community. We ourselves make and create our communities.
“For crying out loud, do something.” That’s what Booker is telling us. Roll up your sleeves and work. I was amazed by him telling that he had a great team inside and outside (!!) the city council to make his plans work. Because I’ve worked five years in politics, at the policy department, and I got frustrated by not seeing all of the legal measures work in practice. Nothing seemed to work, because there was no one making it work in practice.
Nowadays I have the opportunity to work on doing things everyday. I organize. And it really doesn’t matter what I organize. I organize people in politics at the moment. I’m trying to make a lot of Cory Bookers in this country. I want you to be one too. I want us to act, I want us to start doing. Stop talking. Stop wishing. Stop thinking about how things get better. Step up to what your community is facing. Start seeing your surroundings, your building, your family, your school, your sportsclub as your community.
The only harm that can be done to our society is through indifference. It’s not about the 10% or 20% that are doing harm to other people, it’s the majority that has to stand up. As long as we are quiet, the minority of harmdoers are taking over. And harmdoers can be real harmdoers, such as the ones Booker is writing about. But it can also be small harmdoing. Teachers who don’t pay attention to their students, parents who don’t look out for their children. Or passengers that just spill their waste on common ground, our common ground. If we don’t want the dirt, we have to clean it, is my interpretation of the message of Booker.
You can change the world on your own, by changing your world. I want to do that too. I want to change everyday. One step at the time. Treat people like you want to be treated yourself. Don’t act according to rules or ethics, act in the way that you want people to act in a perfect world. Live your life the way you wish the world should be. Try a little better every day.
March 17, 2017
I don't know that I've ever read a political memoir that's more honest and inspiring than this one. Each chapter is a short story that reflects an overall lesson from Booker's life and career.
I was particularly fascinated by the story about the IHOP waitress and how it reflected the impact of community violence and low minimum wage on families. I was also unaware of the incredible sacrifices Booker made to start his political career in a way that ensured he understood the values of his constituents and lived his faith.
I would definitely recommend this, not just to my politically minded friends.
I was particularly fascinated by the story about the IHOP waitress and how it reflected the impact of community violence and low minimum wage on families. I was also unaware of the incredible sacrifices Booker made to start his political career in a way that ensured he understood the values of his constituents and lived his faith.
I would definitely recommend this, not just to my politically minded friends.
April 14, 2025
Thoughts before reading:
He spoke for 25 hours! And without reading from an encyclopedia; his speech was relevant and inspiring! So, to his book... I absolutely love the subtitle; we must find common ground; we must talk to each other. My inbox is full of 'preaching to the choir' and that does nobody any good.
I go for several walks a day and have met many of my neighbors... and, given that this is Oklahoma, probably most of them voted for Trump... but I still talk to them, and when it comes time to put a blue sign in my yard I won't hesitate.
What else can Senator Booker inspire us to do?
---
Well, a lot, if the reader has any network or opportunity in place, or the energy to find or make same. But mainly it's an inspiring memoir of what he has been doing, and what his many mentors did. I'm not done yet and I'm so moved I had to share with you now. Also, he's a very good Christian, but he definitely respects people of all faiths. He believes in finding common ground, quite literally, actually living, in his early years after law school, in crime-ridden inner-city public housing. I'll have more to say, and a lot of book darts, when I'm done.
---
It's also an expose' of corruption, systemic racism, and the effects of policies that have enormously terrible ramifications. Not only in Newark, of course. And this was written before Trump's first term, so you know that many things have gotten even worse. Any good Christian, any good person, will be moved by this book to reach out and *listen* to the people who are working hard but still struggling to reach the first step on the ladder of the American Dream. How can we who are more fortunate help them in the ways they ask for help, and get out of their way when they stretch and reach?
For example the War on Crime increased the rate of federal incarceration by 800 percent. You've got to know that's a big drain on the taxpayer. What you may not realize is that it doesn't decrease the rate of crimes committed. What is currently filling prisons is the policy of mandatory minimum sentencing. And the rate of recidivism.
And on big thing that is keeping the rate of recidivism high is that employers don't give men second chances. Even an arrest is legal grounds, in 36 states, for an employer to reject a job applicant. Even if the arrest was in error, even if the record of the arrest is in error! Also, funds are continually being cut from programs to assist prisoners trying to learn how to reenter society as a citizen, and from rehabilitation programs to help convicts.
Churches and other volunteers can help individuals. Sometimes. But what will get voters to understand that investments in the health of children and families makes good economic sense, because prisons are expensive and those who cannot get a job can only drain, not contribute to, our economy?
---
Still not done reading. Booker says everything that I'm saying better, and says much more, too. Read this book!
---
Done. It is a book best read with care, not rushed through.
" Course corrections are a part of life, but they can't happen if you are standing still."
" With people who were addicted to drugs or dealing them, what did I see? Was I reducing them, drawing conclusions, summing up the totality of their being by the least of their actions?"
" I realized that one of the most valuable things you can give someone is your time and attention."
"... the secession of sections of cities into new towns so as not to have to share schools and other public resources..." Ah-ha! I bet that's why we have Bethany and other cities inside Oklahoma City! OKC schools are terrible... not least because neighborhoods with higher property tax revenues don't actually contribute because they've seceded! Grr....
On Booker's first campaign he was advised, "Don't pretend you know what you don't know, and don't pander. Listen to them, learn from them, share your ideals and heart."
" We won the election, but not necessarily by taking votes away from our opponent. He received roughly the same number of votes as he had in his past election victories. We won because we brought hundreds of new people to the polls, people who were willing to take a chance on me."
" I was coming from college campuses and suburban towns where marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, and other drugs were widespread and often used openly, with little fear of the police... Few Yale or Stanford students worried about being stopped and frisked... I never knew it to happen.... The war on drugs has turned out to be a war on people too often a war on people of color and the poor."
" People have themselves to blame for their decisions; that is undeniable. But don't we have a legal obligation to structure a system that is balanced, not savagely slanted against minorities and the poor? Don't we have a fiscal responsibility to take a common sense approach to reducing the cost to taxpayers? Don't we have a moral responsibility to offer redemption to someone who has paid his debt instead of unyielding retribution against him and his family?"
" The Lower Passaic was killed and the people who lived along its banks were poisoned. The old Diamond Alkali factory now has been declared a Superfund site, and the more I learned about the Passaic River from the activists in Newark's East Ward, the more I felt that we should encircle the site in yellow crime-scene tape." And, yes, why should those who profited by committing that crime of pollution get away with their money and freedom, while the rest of us have to pay big bucks to clean up their mess?
TLDR: An important read. And an inspirational one. At least read the introduction, please.
He spoke for 25 hours! And without reading from an encyclopedia; his speech was relevant and inspiring! So, to his book... I absolutely love the subtitle; we must find common ground; we must talk to each other. My inbox is full of 'preaching to the choir' and that does nobody any good.
I go for several walks a day and have met many of my neighbors... and, given that this is Oklahoma, probably most of them voted for Trump... but I still talk to them, and when it comes time to put a blue sign in my yard I won't hesitate.
What else can Senator Booker inspire us to do?
---
Well, a lot, if the reader has any network or opportunity in place, or the energy to find or make same. But mainly it's an inspiring memoir of what he has been doing, and what his many mentors did. I'm not done yet and I'm so moved I had to share with you now. Also, he's a very good Christian, but he definitely respects people of all faiths. He believes in finding common ground, quite literally, actually living, in his early years after law school, in crime-ridden inner-city public housing. I'll have more to say, and a lot of book darts, when I'm done.
---
It's also an expose' of corruption, systemic racism, and the effects of policies that have enormously terrible ramifications. Not only in Newark, of course. And this was written before Trump's first term, so you know that many things have gotten even worse. Any good Christian, any good person, will be moved by this book to reach out and *listen* to the people who are working hard but still struggling to reach the first step on the ladder of the American Dream. How can we who are more fortunate help them in the ways they ask for help, and get out of their way when they stretch and reach?
For example the War on Crime increased the rate of federal incarceration by 800 percent. You've got to know that's a big drain on the taxpayer. What you may not realize is that it doesn't decrease the rate of crimes committed. What is currently filling prisons is the policy of mandatory minimum sentencing. And the rate of recidivism.
And on big thing that is keeping the rate of recidivism high is that employers don't give men second chances. Even an arrest is legal grounds, in 36 states, for an employer to reject a job applicant. Even if the arrest was in error, even if the record of the arrest is in error! Also, funds are continually being cut from programs to assist prisoners trying to learn how to reenter society as a citizen, and from rehabilitation programs to help convicts.
Churches and other volunteers can help individuals. Sometimes. But what will get voters to understand that investments in the health of children and families makes good economic sense, because prisons are expensive and those who cannot get a job can only drain, not contribute to, our economy?
---
Still not done reading. Booker says everything that I'm saying better, and says much more, too. Read this book!
---
Done. It is a book best read with care, not rushed through.
" Course corrections are a part of life, but they can't happen if you are standing still."
" With people who were addicted to drugs or dealing them, what did I see? Was I reducing them, drawing conclusions, summing up the totality of their being by the least of their actions?"
" I realized that one of the most valuable things you can give someone is your time and attention."
"... the secession of sections of cities into new towns so as not to have to share schools and other public resources..." Ah-ha! I bet that's why we have Bethany and other cities inside Oklahoma City! OKC schools are terrible... not least because neighborhoods with higher property tax revenues don't actually contribute because they've seceded! Grr....
On Booker's first campaign he was advised, "Don't pretend you know what you don't know, and don't pander. Listen to them, learn from them, share your ideals and heart."
" We won the election, but not necessarily by taking votes away from our opponent. He received roughly the same number of votes as he had in his past election victories. We won because we brought hundreds of new people to the polls, people who were willing to take a chance on me."
" I was coming from college campuses and suburban towns where marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, and other drugs were widespread and often used openly, with little fear of the police... Few Yale or Stanford students worried about being stopped and frisked... I never knew it to happen.... The war on drugs has turned out to be a war on people too often a war on people of color and the poor."
" People have themselves to blame for their decisions; that is undeniable. But don't we have a legal obligation to structure a system that is balanced, not savagely slanted against minorities and the poor? Don't we have a fiscal responsibility to take a common sense approach to reducing the cost to taxpayers? Don't we have a moral responsibility to offer redemption to someone who has paid his debt instead of unyielding retribution against him and his family?"
" The Lower Passaic was killed and the people who lived along its banks were poisoned. The old Diamond Alkali factory now has been declared a Superfund site, and the more I learned about the Passaic River from the activists in Newark's East Ward, the more I felt that we should encircle the site in yellow crime-scene tape." And, yes, why should those who profited by committing that crime of pollution get away with their money and freedom, while the rest of us have to pay big bucks to clean up their mess?
TLDR: An important read. And an inspirational one. At least read the introduction, please.
March 5, 2016
Such an inspiration !! If you are discouraged by politics right now this will help you still believe :)
February 1, 2017
I'm a big Cory Booker fan and had no idea what he faced while running for office. (Sharpe James is shaaady. Watch Street Fight on Netflix, which gets into it much more!) This isn't a typical autobiography. Booker shares a little about his background and how and why he wanted to get involved, but it's more about the people and the issues.
March 10, 2016
In his book Cory Booker recounts stories and the lessons he learned from people who have inspired him during his life. He went to Stanford University where he played football and majored in political science. He was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship and studied sociology at Oxford. On returning to the United States he entered Yale Law School.
Booker begins his stories with the non-profit work he did with the poor while in Yale Law School. Upon graduation he went to work with a non-profit in a poor section of Newark. Over time he realized he could do more as an elected official so ran for City Council and won. As time went on he became the Mayor of Newark and currently is the Senator from New Jersey. He is the first black Senator from New Jersey.
The key item Booker emphases throughout the book is the need to work together across party, social and racial lines in order to accomplish the common good. The book is well written and moves along at a good clip. Booker seemed to have a major interest in the judicial system particularly as related to the blacks. Booker made no mention of the failed education experiment funded by Facebook founder that occurred when he was the mayor of Newark. I would have like to hear his viewpoint. There was a few times in the book, I felt that Booker was preaching at me, but that passed quickly. Overall, it is an interesting look at the life of a young black man and how he took advantage of educational opportunities and acquired the help from great mentors. Hope we elect more people to government who are willing to work together rather than just fight each other. I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. Cory Booker narrated his own book.
Booker begins his stories with the non-profit work he did with the poor while in Yale Law School. Upon graduation he went to work with a non-profit in a poor section of Newark. Over time he realized he could do more as an elected official so ran for City Council and won. As time went on he became the Mayor of Newark and currently is the Senator from New Jersey. He is the first black Senator from New Jersey.
The key item Booker emphases throughout the book is the need to work together across party, social and racial lines in order to accomplish the common good. The book is well written and moves along at a good clip. Booker seemed to have a major interest in the judicial system particularly as related to the blacks. Booker made no mention of the failed education experiment funded by Facebook founder that occurred when he was the mayor of Newark. I would have like to hear his viewpoint. There was a few times in the book, I felt that Booker was preaching at me, but that passed quickly. Overall, it is an interesting look at the life of a young black man and how he took advantage of educational opportunities and acquired the help from great mentors. Hope we elect more people to government who are willing to work together rather than just fight each other. I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. Cory Booker narrated his own book.
March 2, 2016
Cory Booker for President! He's definitely better than any of the choices facing me currently.
I was intrigued by Cory Booker when I watched a show on PBS detailing his run against the corrupt, then incumbent mayor of Newark, NJ. Why would the intelligent, privileged son of two IBM executives choose to live in a run-down, drug-infested apartment building in a city that's not even where he's really from? Because he wants to make the world better and he's starting in his corner.
While I'm sure that Cory and I don't always see eye to eye on matters, we see eye to eye on one--something needs to be done about the state of our country, and our current actions are not having much effect. I loved how when he wasn't sure what his next course of action should be, his mother advised him, "When you don't know what to do, do SOMETHING."
Booker isn't afraid to admit when he was wrong and he always attempted to recognize the lesson to be learned from any situation. I loved that when he did decide to do SOMETHING about a situation in which he was at a loss to improve, he decided to fast and pray and invited the community to join him. And they did. Wish we had more leaders like that! He was not afraid to learn from his elders or venture into places not deemed safe. He just dove in. And I like him for it.
I found Booker to be enthusiastic about wanting to make improvements in affordable housing, incarceration that is out of control, the environment, and many other social issues affecting our world today. And I wanted to go with him! Now he's got me thinking, what could I do in my corner of the world to make things better?
I was intrigued by Cory Booker when I watched a show on PBS detailing his run against the corrupt, then incumbent mayor of Newark, NJ. Why would the intelligent, privileged son of two IBM executives choose to live in a run-down, drug-infested apartment building in a city that's not even where he's really from? Because he wants to make the world better and he's starting in his corner.
While I'm sure that Cory and I don't always see eye to eye on matters, we see eye to eye on one--something needs to be done about the state of our country, and our current actions are not having much effect. I loved how when he wasn't sure what his next course of action should be, his mother advised him, "When you don't know what to do, do SOMETHING."
Booker isn't afraid to admit when he was wrong and he always attempted to recognize the lesson to be learned from any situation. I loved that when he did decide to do SOMETHING about a situation in which he was at a loss to improve, he decided to fast and pray and invited the community to join him. And they did. Wish we had more leaders like that! He was not afraid to learn from his elders or venture into places not deemed safe. He just dove in. And I like him for it.
I found Booker to be enthusiastic about wanting to make improvements in affordable housing, incarceration that is out of control, the environment, and many other social issues affecting our world today. And I wanted to go with him! Now he's got me thinking, what could I do in my corner of the world to make things better?
February 20, 2018
ehhhh. i expected more. 2.5 stars, inching towards 3.
the organization of the book was strange. i feel like we started off learning about his foundation in Newark, the people that influenced him and helped him find his way and encouraged him to run for city council. then there's brief mention of his run for mayor, and then suddenly he's running for US senate. i think he did some important reflection on his young naivete as a privileged Ivy League grad coming to "save" Newark, but not so much reflection on his choices as mayor and since. Partly this suffers from its timing - it was published in early 2016, so a lot of the issues that will be front and center if Booker runs for President were not yet apparent - corporate campaign contributions, encroaching neoliberalism and controversial moves in the Newark public school systems, surviving as a blue mayor with a red governor in the age of preemption...and there was no mention of the Booker hype machine - the documentaries, the twitter handle, the superhero running into burning buildings. It was just weird to have no mention. I don't regret reading it, but it was too much Audacity of Hope and not enough Dreams from my Father. A profile in NYT magazine would probably serve you better than reading this. I respect Booker's commitment to working for criminal justice reform, housing and food justice; I just want him to look as critically at his own campaigns and policies as he did towards Sharpe James or Chris Christie.
the organization of the book was strange. i feel like we started off learning about his foundation in Newark, the people that influenced him and helped him find his way and encouraged him to run for city council. then there's brief mention of his run for mayor, and then suddenly he's running for US senate. i think he did some important reflection on his young naivete as a privileged Ivy League grad coming to "save" Newark, but not so much reflection on his choices as mayor and since. Partly this suffers from its timing - it was published in early 2016, so a lot of the issues that will be front and center if Booker runs for President were not yet apparent - corporate campaign contributions, encroaching neoliberalism and controversial moves in the Newark public school systems, surviving as a blue mayor with a red governor in the age of preemption...and there was no mention of the Booker hype machine - the documentaries, the twitter handle, the superhero running into burning buildings. It was just weird to have no mention. I don't regret reading it, but it was too much Audacity of Hope and not enough Dreams from my Father. A profile in NYT magazine would probably serve you better than reading this. I respect Booker's commitment to working for criminal justice reform, housing and food justice; I just want him to look as critically at his own campaigns and policies as he did towards Sharpe James or Chris Christie.
March 27, 2016
I received this book after winning a Goodreads giveaway. Thank you, I truly enjoyed reading it.
I have admired Sen. Booker for a long time, after first learning about him on local television news when he first ran for mayor. Later, I saw him in two documentary series, "Brick City." He was a breath of fresh air in his community and it was obvious he had the potential to go places. As a prior reviewer noted, this is a book written by a person who plans to run for president in about 10 years or so.
That being noted, his idealist view of the interrelated nature of American society and interdependence of our people is addressed in his upbeat, optimistic manner. He lavishly illustrates his points with anecdotes about people he met and worked with as Newark's mayor. His primary concerns are discussed with a hope that together we can accomplish anything, as Mother Theresa would have said.
His concerns for the poor and forgotten are admirable. I hope his ambitions don't waylay his care for them.
I have admired Sen. Booker for a long time, after first learning about him on local television news when he first ran for mayor. Later, I saw him in two documentary series, "Brick City." He was a breath of fresh air in his community and it was obvious he had the potential to go places. As a prior reviewer noted, this is a book written by a person who plans to run for president in about 10 years or so.
That being noted, his idealist view of the interrelated nature of American society and interdependence of our people is addressed in his upbeat, optimistic manner. He lavishly illustrates his points with anecdotes about people he met and worked with as Newark's mayor. His primary concerns are discussed with a hope that together we can accomplish anything, as Mother Theresa would have said.
His concerns for the poor and forgotten are admirable. I hope his ambitions don't waylay his care for them.
May 23, 2016
I really admire Cory Booker and the journey he took to get where he is today. In "United…" he doesn't try to hide any privilege he might have had growing up in an upper middle class household. And he doesn't shy away from discussing his flaws; conversely, he is open about his "teachable moments"— times when he was blatantly wrong, and learned from his mistakes, which I find to be an important characteristic for those in leadership positions to possess. The way with which he approaches issues surrounding class and poverty and disenfranchisement—with caution, honesty and authenticity— is refreshing. And the unsung heroes— the tireless workers and community leaders and "normal folk" that often go unrecognized— that he brings into the fray and celebrates is beautiful. There are so many quotable moments here, and so many insightful lessons and situations from which to learn and tuck away for later use. It's a book I'll pass along, as well as return to, during my own journey.
June 9, 2016
So, if you think that the political scene in this country is a screwed-up mess, read this book and see that there is hope. Cory Booker's story is an amazing one: educated black man chooses to go live in the projects of Newark, NJ after graduation from law school, so that he can make a difference. He soon discovers that what he envisions doesn't meet with what is needed, but he is very good at listening, working, and uniting people for a stronger community. This barely touches the tip of the iceberg of this journey--from community activist, to council member, to mayor, to junior senator. The faith, hope and vision in this book is truly inspiring.
December 27, 2018
Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere—and to reach out to others is very much in one’s own self-interest (p. 210).
Cory Booker is a Democratic senator from New Jersey, one of ten African Americans to ever serve in the US Senate. Three of the 100 current senators are African American, the most ever. He had served as mayor of Newark and is one of a small number of mayors to move directly to the Senate. He is a Rhodes Scholar and a graduate of Stanford and Yale Law School.
More than these things, though, Booker is a charismatic and passionate idealist, who has made some unusual life choices (e.g., living in the projects of Newark) that are atypical for a politician. In a period when cynicism and self-interest seem to reign supreme, it's difficult to not be suspicious.
United: Thoughts on Finding Common Ground and Advancing the Common Good is largely focused on his work in Newark, although he occasionally alluded to his election to Senate and his work there. He talked about public housing, crime, the criminal justice system, the broader effects on children and communities of the mass imprisonment of African Americans even for nonviolent offenses, and environmental activism. United was written to honor the best of our history and the truth of my mentors, and to share some of the ideals they instilled in me: empathy and connection, responsibility and obligation—and, perhaps most of all, the urgent need to act (p. 6).
Booker's description of himself is not of a man who became a politician fully formed. He readily admits to making mistakes, to having been formed by a number of mentors (mostly African American elders, including his parents, but also some Whites). His voice is refreshing. Through listening and learning from his mentors and his community, he identified more effective, often creative ways of solving the problems his community faced.
While Booker has spent a lot of energy working at a molecular level, he has also become interested in identifying and addressing the source of the problem, as with one of the parables he retold (about saving drowning children): "I’m going upriver to find out why these children are in the water in the first place so I can stop it” (p. 191).
If you are suspicious – as you might rightly be when you hear of a politician choosing to live in the projects – watch and listen. Do his words and actions align? At least in United they do.
Booker is a force to reckon with and watch.
Cory Booker is a Democratic senator from New Jersey, one of ten African Americans to ever serve in the US Senate. Three of the 100 current senators are African American, the most ever. He had served as mayor of Newark and is one of a small number of mayors to move directly to the Senate. He is a Rhodes Scholar and a graduate of Stanford and Yale Law School.
More than these things, though, Booker is a charismatic and passionate idealist, who has made some unusual life choices (e.g., living in the projects of Newark) that are atypical for a politician. In a period when cynicism and self-interest seem to reign supreme, it's difficult to not be suspicious.
United: Thoughts on Finding Common Ground and Advancing the Common Good is largely focused on his work in Newark, although he occasionally alluded to his election to Senate and his work there. He talked about public housing, crime, the criminal justice system, the broader effects on children and communities of the mass imprisonment of African Americans even for nonviolent offenses, and environmental activism. United was written to honor the best of our history and the truth of my mentors, and to share some of the ideals they instilled in me: empathy and connection, responsibility and obligation—and, perhaps most of all, the urgent need to act (p. 6).
Booker's description of himself is not of a man who became a politician fully formed. He readily admits to making mistakes, to having been formed by a number of mentors (mostly African American elders, including his parents, but also some Whites). His voice is refreshing. Through listening and learning from his mentors and his community, he identified more effective, often creative ways of solving the problems his community faced.
While Booker has spent a lot of energy working at a molecular level, he has also become interested in identifying and addressing the source of the problem, as with one of the parables he retold (about saving drowning children): "I’m going upriver to find out why these children are in the water in the first place so I can stop it” (p. 191).
If you are suspicious – as you might rightly be when you hear of a politician choosing to live in the projects – watch and listen. Do his words and actions align? At least in United they do.
Booker is a force to reckon with and watch.
August 15, 2019
Cory Booker isn’t my favorite candidate for the Democratic nomination but I was pleasantly surprised by his memoir. After reading this, he’s moved way up my rankings. The memoir dealt with some but not all of my policy concerns: poverty and the prison-industrial complex. He only briefly touched on environmental issues. I would have preferred a more comprehensive explanation of his policy perspectives.
May 15, 2017
I came into this book already having a lot of respect for Cory Booker and I came out of it with a deeper understanding of his views and even more respect for him.
I lived for seven years in Newark, NJ (although in the northern part, not the central ward) and for another 4 years in neighboring Belleville. I voted twice for Cory Booker for mayor and then later would have voted for him as a senator if I hadn't moved away from NJ. I was aware of his policies and his background, and I knew he once rescued a woman from a burning building (while serving as mayor) and drove his security team nuts by going places and doing things that public officials normally wouldn't, but I didn't know until much later that he had chosen to live in troubled neighborhoods or had participated in sit-ins to bring attention to tenant-landlord disputes and this book introduced me to more places in his life where he puts his principles to work.
The main message of this book is that we live in a shared world with common resources and we need to work together to use those resources for the good of everyone rather than putting our personal profit above the good of the community and even our own children and grandchildren who will be left to pay the price and clean up the mess.
There are a lot of real-world examples of places where this applies, such as the $1.4 billion dollars that are being spent to try to clean up Diamond Alkali's toxic Agent Orange dumping into the Passaic River which could have been prevented with thousands (fine, ok -- maybe hundreds of thousands) of dollars spent instead on proper disposal of the toxic chemicals and proper safeguards and building standards to avoid seepage into the ground. If we are a little more community-minded and a bit more farsighted, we can see that the overall cost of doing things the right way in the first place is going to be significantly lower than cleaning up after. (http://www.nj.com/essex/index.ssf/201...) Then there are examples of projects that have helped prevent recidivism among people reentering society after prison, and projects meant to help fix the school-to-jail pipeline (which saves taxpayers money while also making them safer).
I know, I know -- it's hard not to have a cynical view of books written by politicians. It feels like it's just campaigning and trying to get more national attention. But this book includes some concrete examples and shows a person who really tries to live up to his beliefs and puts his money where his mouth is. Cory Booker is a public servant who really knows how to serve, whether that is by helping an elderly man shovel his driveway in the winter or by inviting people who have been rendered homeless by a natural disaster to take shelter in his own home.
I lived for seven years in Newark, NJ (although in the northern part, not the central ward) and for another 4 years in neighboring Belleville. I voted twice for Cory Booker for mayor and then later would have voted for him as a senator if I hadn't moved away from NJ. I was aware of his policies and his background, and I knew he once rescued a woman from a burning building (while serving as mayor) and drove his security team nuts by going places and doing things that public officials normally wouldn't, but I didn't know until much later that he had chosen to live in troubled neighborhoods or had participated in sit-ins to bring attention to tenant-landlord disputes and this book introduced me to more places in his life where he puts his principles to work.
The main message of this book is that we live in a shared world with common resources and we need to work together to use those resources for the good of everyone rather than putting our personal profit above the good of the community and even our own children and grandchildren who will be left to pay the price and clean up the mess.
There are a lot of real-world examples of places where this applies, such as the $1.4 billion dollars that are being spent to try to clean up Diamond Alkali's toxic Agent Orange dumping into the Passaic River which could have been prevented with thousands (fine, ok -- maybe hundreds of thousands) of dollars spent instead on proper disposal of the toxic chemicals and proper safeguards and building standards to avoid seepage into the ground. If we are a little more community-minded and a bit more farsighted, we can see that the overall cost of doing things the right way in the first place is going to be significantly lower than cleaning up after. (http://www.nj.com/essex/index.ssf/201...) Then there are examples of projects that have helped prevent recidivism among people reentering society after prison, and projects meant to help fix the school-to-jail pipeline (which saves taxpayers money while also making them safer).
I know, I know -- it's hard not to have a cynical view of books written by politicians. It feels like it's just campaigning and trying to get more national attention. But this book includes some concrete examples and shows a person who really tries to live up to his beliefs and puts his money where his mouth is. Cory Booker is a public servant who really knows how to serve, whether that is by helping an elderly man shovel his driveway in the winter or by inviting people who have been rendered homeless by a natural disaster to take shelter in his own home.
March 26, 2016
I like Cory Booker and the points he is trying to make in this book are valid. I'm with him in theory, I just don't think he expresses himself well in this book.
First off, there are editing issues; some just straight out repeated words or bad punctuation, but also a lot of repetitive re-capping of people and events. This causes each chapter to read more like an individual essay than part of a cohesive book. And each chapter (with the exception of the last one) pretty much express the same frustrations (and really, even the last one is the same, but the approach is largely different.)
There is far too much quoting of others which, honestly, becomes rather depressing when you start to realize how many have and how long we've been trying to correct the societal issues Booker discusses.
There is not nearly enough of Booker's personally developed views, and virtually nothing of his personal background. He spends a lot of time saying how he was wrong about things and while it's great to fess up to your failures, there might be one too many of that type of anecdote here to instill much confidence with regard to future decisions.
First off, there are editing issues; some just straight out repeated words or bad punctuation, but also a lot of repetitive re-capping of people and events. This causes each chapter to read more like an individual essay than part of a cohesive book. And each chapter (with the exception of the last one) pretty much express the same frustrations (and really, even the last one is the same, but the approach is largely different.)
There is far too much quoting of others which, honestly, becomes rather depressing when you start to realize how many have and how long we've been trying to correct the societal issues Booker discusses.
There is not nearly enough of Booker's personally developed views, and virtually nothing of his personal background. He spends a lot of time saying how he was wrong about things and while it's great to fess up to your failures, there might be one too many of that type of anecdote here to instill much confidence with regard to future decisions.
September 10, 2016
I found this book hard to put down. I'd heard all the popular stories about Cory Booker's heroics during his time as mayor of Newark. Those stories are not in this book. The stars of this book are the city of Newark and the people who nurtured him from an aspiring young activist into a political leader. It is an emotional and compelling read that also packs in a lot of facts and some strong policy recommendations on criminal justice reform and other issues that matter to our cities.
I look forward to citing this book when I urge people to support Booker's presidential campaign in a few years.
I look forward to citing this book when I urge people to support Booker's presidential campaign in a few years.
March 12, 2016
cory booker, the junior senator from new jersey has enjoyed a remarkable political ascendancy. in his first book, united: thoughts on finding common ground and advancing the common good, the former newark mayor and city councilman offers the obligatory biographical sketch, as well as insight into the formative personal and political experiences that have molded and informed his belief system and governing priorities. perhaps most noteworthy for a political memoir, booker doesn't dwell on his own upbringing, education, or accomplishments, instead detailing the individuals and causes that have inspired and encouraged him to help create a better world.
booker writes movingly about his commitments to confronting issues of poverty, income inequality, accessible housing, education, criminal justice reform, and environmental activism. the senator's compassion, humility, attentiveness, unwavering advocacy, and respect for differences are enviable traits that set him apart from so much of the dysfunction and discord currently plaguing national politics. it would appear that senator booker's trajectory will one day lead to a white house bid, and his selfless work on behalf of constituents will surely make him a formidable candidate.
booker writes movingly about his commitments to confronting issues of poverty, income inequality, accessible housing, education, criminal justice reform, and environmental activism. the senator's compassion, humility, attentiveness, unwavering advocacy, and respect for differences are enviable traits that set him apart from so much of the dysfunction and discord currently plaguing national politics. it would appear that senator booker's trajectory will one day lead to a white house bid, and his selfless work on behalf of constituents will surely make him a formidable candidate.
profound connections exist between all; interdependency so manifest that perceived separation is a delusion. like a great pool containing millions of drops of water, introduce a stone and all are elevated, poison a part and all are ill affected. you can't connect more or less; the connection exists no matter what our perception. but ignore the connection, deny it, and consequences come. yet still we too often obscure the truth of our interconnection; we insult our bonds with indifference; and through self-inflicted blindness to connection we curse the whole and damn ourselves.
the law always is: you reap what you sow; for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction; cause and effect. humble people teach us this and more. they are great masters, the best of whom i have found are not on television, not at a university, and not elected to any office. they do not preach sermons, give lectures, or dispense orders. they do. without fanfare, they do the best they can, with what they have, where they are. they themselves are often the ignored and marginalized, and often they are the redeemed or the prodigal child come home repentant. whatever their journey, they humbly manifest the truth preached by dr. king: "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere; we are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a common garment of destiny."
November 25, 2018
Although I've known Cory for 14 years and have seen him speak probably a hundred times, this book was full of stories and ideas that revealed layers of history, beliefs and character that are new to me.
Significant and memorable in ways similar to Barack Obama's Dreams from My Father and Jonathan Kozol's Amazing Grace, this book expertly interweaves stories with policy and statistical data that illustrate, on the one hand, how civil rights crusaders made possible Booker's life of opportunity -- and on the other hand, how centuries of structural racism and disinvestment in our most vulnerable communities show up daily in the lives, bodies, and, all too often, deaths of those who aren't so fortunate. It is at once a primer on social/economic/racial/environmental justice, and also a glimpse of the stories, data and history behind how one of today's great leaders came to believe in and stand for what he does.
This book reminds me not just of why I've always believed in Cory, but also of why I, too, have felt passionately about understanding and leveraging my many privileges to ensure that every child has opportunities for a long, full life and that every human may live with dignity, safe from harm.
Of course, I personally appreciated the mentions of community court and ReLeSe as these were the most meaningful and enduring projects I am grateful to have been part of (and my best acronym to date). All in all, the book wove together masterfully, was both authentic and well researched, from the heart and grounded in objective truth.
Significant and memorable in ways similar to Barack Obama's Dreams from My Father and Jonathan Kozol's Amazing Grace, this book expertly interweaves stories with policy and statistical data that illustrate, on the one hand, how civil rights crusaders made possible Booker's life of opportunity -- and on the other hand, how centuries of structural racism and disinvestment in our most vulnerable communities show up daily in the lives, bodies, and, all too often, deaths of those who aren't so fortunate. It is at once a primer on social/economic/racial/environmental justice, and also a glimpse of the stories, data and history behind how one of today's great leaders came to believe in and stand for what he does.
This book reminds me not just of why I've always believed in Cory, but also of why I, too, have felt passionately about understanding and leveraging my many privileges to ensure that every child has opportunities for a long, full life and that every human may live with dignity, safe from harm.
Of course, I personally appreciated the mentions of community court and ReLeSe as these were the most meaningful and enduring projects I am grateful to have been part of (and my best acronym to date). All in all, the book wove together masterfully, was both authentic and well researched, from the heart and grounded in objective truth.
January 29, 2018
I find it fascinating to read the words, thoughts, and convictions of those that choose to devote themselves to public service and the dreams they have for making this country great.
Senator Booker without a doubt feels all of the possible feels, but one sentiment for sure gripped my heart and I hope it continuities it’s hold on the ole heart strings for many years to come. We must all strive to do more than simply tolerate one another. We must love each other. Human lives should be valued and respected not based on their ideology, religion, political stance or any other qualifying factor, but simply because they are in existence. We must answer the higher calling to love one another when so many would say that tolerance is enough. Just my two cents.
“Love necessitates extending yourself, often out of your comfort zone, making the conscious choice to see that person, despite his or her circumstances, as worthy and as vital to you. Love recognizes that if another falls, fails, or succumbs, then we are all worse off and our lives are diminished.
Tolerance is becoming accustomed to injustice; love is becoming disturbed and activated by another’s adverse condition. Tolerance crosses the street; love confronts. Tolerance builds fences; love opens doors. Tolerance breeds indifference; love demands engagement. Tolerance couldn’t care less; love always cares more.”
Senator Booker without a doubt feels all of the possible feels, but one sentiment for sure gripped my heart and I hope it continuities it’s hold on the ole heart strings for many years to come. We must all strive to do more than simply tolerate one another. We must love each other. Human lives should be valued and respected not based on their ideology, religion, political stance or any other qualifying factor, but simply because they are in existence. We must answer the higher calling to love one another when so many would say that tolerance is enough. Just my two cents.
“Love necessitates extending yourself, often out of your comfort zone, making the conscious choice to see that person, despite his or her circumstances, as worthy and as vital to you. Love recognizes that if another falls, fails, or succumbs, then we are all worse off and our lives are diminished.
Tolerance is becoming accustomed to injustice; love is becoming disturbed and activated by another’s adverse condition. Tolerance crosses the street; love confronts. Tolerance builds fences; love opens doors. Tolerance breeds indifference; love demands engagement. Tolerance couldn’t care less; love always cares more.”
March 26, 2019
Booker describes his time in Newark, but this is more of a narrative policy book than a memoir. He uses stories to illustrate community needs and policy solutions, but it’s definitely not a blow-by-blow of his time in Newark. Mostly he focuses on racial justice as it intersects with criminal justice, although he also touches on environmental justice & other issues.
Some may be put off by what they see as his showboating in Senate hearings, but his past in Newark paints it in a different light. He chose to live in some of the most dangerous areas in Newark, both as a council member and as mayor. He once camped out at a high rise and went on a 10-day fast to bring awareness to the city’s neglect of the tenants’ needs. These actions show to me that when he’s making waves, he’s doing so with a clear moral goal in mind. Obviously politicians’ books are meant to paint them in a positive light, but I was impressed with his vision and accomplishments.
Some may be put off by what they see as his showboating in Senate hearings, but his past in Newark paints it in a different light. He chose to live in some of the most dangerous areas in Newark, both as a council member and as mayor. He once camped out at a high rise and went on a 10-day fast to bring awareness to the city’s neglect of the tenants’ needs. These actions show to me that when he’s making waves, he’s doing so with a clear moral goal in mind. Obviously politicians’ books are meant to paint them in a positive light, but I was impressed with his vision and accomplishments.
December 19, 2016
Cory Booker is a bastion of hope in this seemingly negative time in our countries history. He seems to be everything one would hope for in a politician and epitomizes the ideal of when they go low we go high. This book gives a history of his time as a Newark councilmen, mayor, and junior Senator from New Jersey and speaks to his main goals as a senator. He never speaks negatively of those who he disagrees with and just comes off as a really down to earth guy. Since beginning this book I have often asked myself "What Would Cory Booker Do" in this situation. This mantra is my first step in emulating his message and trying to see the world through the lens of Love. I look forward to seeing where is career goes and appreciate all of his work and efforts thus far.
July 25, 2016
When I started this book last week Hillary had not yet made her choice for VP. I had been hoping Cory Booker might be the choice. Having read this, I think he'll be an exciting national figure for the Dem's at some point, but now is a bit too soon. And I'm fine with Kaine as VP choice.
Booker has a good set of stories to tell. He comes from a fairly secure upbringing, so this was not the view from the bottom. But he over and over took it upon himself to care about and seek out the view from the bottom. That impressed me. He's the kind of person that could make you feel good about politics.
Booker has a good set of stories to tell. He comes from a fairly secure upbringing, so this was not the view from the bottom. But he over and over took it upon himself to care about and seek out the view from the bottom. That impressed me. He's the kind of person that could make you feel good about politics.
November 26, 2016
This is one of that type of book we're seeing from many politicians: Short enough, and easy enough to read, and giving some idea of who they are with anecdotes, a summary of accomplishments, and hopes for the future. Most of these books are nothing great, so it will be a rare one that gets more than three stars from me. This book is a satisfactory introduction to Senator Cory Booker. I'm reading books like this because I want to get to know the up-and-coming Democratic leaders now that Hillary Clinton has (unfortunately) been defeated, and we are facing four years (maybe) under an unprepared, cruel buffoon.
January 23, 2017
Based on Senator Booker's position on education reform, his decision to live in the projects as Newark City Councilman, and what I remember from the documentary "Street Fight" about his mayoral campaign, I knew I liked Cory Booker. This book made me an even bigger supporter. Although I wish he'd dedicated at least a few pages to his work on public education (his omission no doubt due to the relative controversial nature of the topic), I learned a ton more about his personal background, his road to elected office, and most importantly, about the values that guide his leadership--humility, empathy, and responsibility. Keep moving up Senator Booker.
March 1, 2018
3.5* - I didn't love every aspect of this book but you can't help but admire the man. His ideologies become his practice and he has put himself in the trenches of society in order to understand and directly help the people in his community. Every politician should read this, if for no other reason than to see another possible way of doing things. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for Mr. Cory Booker.
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