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Barack Obama in His Own Words

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Since delivering his keynote speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, Barack Obama has been hailed as the clear savior of not only the Democratic party, but of the integrity of American politics. Despite the fact that he burst onto the national scene seemingly overnight, his name recognition has grown by leaps and bounds ever since.

Barack Obama in His Own Words, a book of quotes from the Illinois Senator, allows those who aren't as familiar with his politics to learn quickly where he stands on abortion, religion, AIDS, his critics, foreign policy, Iraq, the War on Terror, unemployment, gay marriage, and a host of other important issues facing America and the world.

224 pages, Paperback

First published March 27, 2007

37 people are currently reading
2667 people want to read

About the author

Barack Obama

318 books21.6k followers
Barack Obama was the 44th president of the United States, elected in November 2008 and holding office for two terms. He is the author of two previous New York Times bestselling books, Dreams from My Father and The Audacity of Hope, and the recipient of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. He lives in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Michelle. They have two daughters, Malia and Sasha.

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5 stars
252 (43%)
4 stars
143 (24%)
3 stars
105 (17%)
2 stars
36 (6%)
1 star
48 (8%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Bhavna.
5 reviews
Read
February 21, 2009
Everything is possible. Just be yourself and reinforce everything good.
Profile Image for Nick.
49 reviews5 followers
December 2, 2020
Inspiring, uplifting and literate, unlike his successor
Profile Image for Eugene.
18 reviews3 followers
June 21, 2008
I bought this book (in addition to his two books) in order to get to know this presidential candidate a bit better.

Although it does provide some insights, they are few and far between. The timing of the publication (mid 2007) leaves out some specific Obama policy positions which would have been nice to have for someone who's reading this. It's an understandable reality of publication, but nonetheless crippling in terms of usefulness.

Reading his speeches this week in light of his refusal of public funding was especially interesting since there is a quote in the book which states:

"The whole issue of money in politics is one that I'm constantly struggling with, because my preference would be that we've got public financing of campaigns and nobody has to raise money whatsoever."
--All Things Considered, October 19, 2006

Overall, its a well put together collection of quotes - I just wish there were more direct stances rather than circumventive oratory.
Profile Image for Jodi.
90 reviews9 followers
May 6, 2009
lovely to dip into from time to time.
Profile Image for Anuj Dubey.
Author 3 books21 followers
April 6, 2024
"Barack Obama in His Own Words" offers readers a unique and intimate perspective on one of the most influential figures of the 21st century. Compiled from Barack Obama's speeches, interviews, and writings spanning his political career, this collection provides a comprehensive overview of his thoughts, beliefs, and vision for America.

What sets this book apart is its authenticity and candor. Through his own words, Obama reflects on his upbringing, his experiences as a community organizer, and his historic journey to the White House. Whether he's discussing race, democracy, or the challenges facing the nation, Obama's voice resonates with wisdom, empathy, and a deep commitment to social justice.

One of the book's strengths is its insight into Obama's leadership style and governing philosophy. He shares insights into his decision-making process, his approach to diplomacy, and his efforts to navigate the complexities of domestic and foreign policy. Moreover, Obama's eloquent prose and gift for storytelling make even the most complex issues accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

Beyond politics, "Barack Obama in His Own Words" also offers a glimpse into Obama's personal life and values. He speaks candidly about his family, his faith, and the importance of empathy and resilience in the face of adversity. Through his reflections on fatherhood, marriage, and the American Dream, Obama reveals himself not just as a statesman but as a husband, father, and citizen deeply invested in the future of his country.

In addition to its substantive content, the book is also a visual delight, with striking photographs capturing key moments from Obama's presidency. From historic speeches to candid moments with world leaders and ordinary citizens alike, these images bring Obama's words to life, providing context and depth to his narrative.

Overall, "Barack Obama in His Own Words" is a compelling and insightful portrait of a transformative leader and his vision for America. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Obama's presidency or simply someone interested in politics and leadership, this book offers valuable lessons and inspiration for the challenges of our time. It's a testament to the power of words and ideas to shape history and ignite change, reminding us of the enduring impact of Obama's legacy on the world stage.
13 reviews
April 15, 2025
buku yang sangat bagus untuk motifasi ada beberapa kesimpulan yang bisa kita terapkan
Kekuatan Kata-kata dan Visi: Obama sangat percaya pada kekuatan kata-kata untuk menginspirasi dan mempersatukan. Buku ini menunjukkan bagaimana retorikanya bukan hanya indah, tapi juga bermakna dan berakar pada nilai-nilai kemanusiaan.
Pentingnya Harapan dan Perubahan: Salah satu tema sentral dalam kutipan-kutipannya adalah hope and change (harapan dan perubahan). Obama menekankan bahwa perubahan besar datang dari partisipasi aktif masyarakat dan harapan yang dijaga bersama
Pendidikan dan Kesetaraan: Obama melihat pendidikan sebagai fondasi masa depan dan menyoroti pentingnya akses yang setara untuk semua golongan masyarakat
Kepemimpinan yang Inklusif: Obama mempromosikan kepemimpinan yang mendengar dan melibatkan semua pihak, bukan hanya mengatur dari atas.
Ras dan Identitas: Sebagai Presiden kulit hitam pertama AS, Obama banyak berbicara tentang identitas, diskriminasi, dan pentingnya membangun jembatan antar komunitas
15 reviews7 followers
June 17, 2022
A collection of some of the greatest quotes by Barack Obama. You get an insight into who the man was without reading all the books he has authored like 'THE AUDACITY OF HOPE " and " DREAMS FROM MY FATHER"

Some of the notable quotes

"Even though I hadn't written a book before, I had a sense of what it felt like to write something that rang true. When you start writing you are able to discern where you're being false, where you're using clichés, where you're manufacturing emotion that's not really there. or where you're shying away from something that isn't necessarily flattering."

"[The president] could take the politics out of Iraq once and for all if he would simply go on television and say to the American people, "Yes, we made mistakes." Imagine if he did that, how it would transform from the politics of our country."


A good read, it doesn't feel laborious. It's like reading tweets
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
20 reviews3 followers
January 2, 2023
Obama mengatakan pada buku ini "Tidak ada persoalan yang sederhana, karena semua persoalan tidak boleh di remehkan". Kunci dari keberhasilan adalah taat kepada tuhan, karena Agama adalah sumber harapan.
Dimanapun kita dilahirkan atau sekaya apapun orang tua kita, seperti apapun rupamu atau apapun keyakinan mu, kamu tetap bisa menjadi seperti apa pun yang kamu inginkan; masih bisa terus maju meraih hal hal besar; masih terus bisa mengejar kebahagiaan yang kamu dambakan. Menjadi seorang pemimpin bukan hanya modal berkeyakinan ingin menjadi pemimpin, namun kita juga harus membaca apa yang diinginkan dari orang/tempat yang ingin kita pimpin.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
18 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2023
Buku ini berisi tentang pendapat dari Barack Obama, kisah dan perjuangannya dalam menjadi Presiden kulit hitam pertama di Amerika Serikat.
Kisahnya menginspirasi dalam membahas isu dalam AS sendiri dan persoalan luar negeri.

Salah satu kalimat yang menginspirasi dalam buku:
Bahwa di mana pun kamu dilahirkan atau sekaya apa pun orang tuanmu, seperti apa pun rupamu atau apa pun keyakinanmu, kamu tetap bisa menjadi seperti apa pun yang kamu inginkan; masih bisa terus maju untuk meraih hal-hal besar; masih terus bisa mengejar kebahagiaan yang kamu dambakan.
15 reviews2 followers
November 19, 2023
Buku ini menuliskan pikiran dan ucapan Barack Obama atas sikapnya tentang berbagai persoalan dan menunjukkan visi terbaiknya. Buku ini juga memperlihatkan kepribadian Barack Obama yang rendah hati, berkarisma, memberikan pandangan dan pendapat, menyodorkan solusi dan berani menolak dan berpendirian teguh. Buku ini mengenalkan kita bagaimana pandangan beliau terhadap tokoh-tokoh international seperti Abraham Lincoln dan Saddam Husein. Buku ini secara tidak langsung juga menggambarkan bagaimana keadaan politik AS baik positif maupun hal negatifnya.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
25 reviews2 followers
June 22, 2023
isi buku ini berupa kutipan dari ucapan ataupun pidato Omaba mengenai beberapa hal, tidak ada penjelasan detail dari pandangan yang di cetuskan oleh Obama dalam buku ini.
kutipan pandangan Obama dalam buku ini antara lain kebijakan lunar negeri, kebijakan dalam negeri, kongres, karir politik Obama, ras, persmaan hak, demokrasi, partai politik dan lainnya
Jika kalian ingin atau apa saja pandangan dari dari Obama tentang suatu hal, bisa baca buku ini
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
15 reviews
August 25, 2024
Buku ini memberikan wawasan mendalam tentang bagaimana Obama melihat dunia dan bagaimana ia menerjemahkan visinya menjadi tindakan konkret selama masa kepresidenannya. Dalam buku banyak berbicara tentang kebijakan-kebijakan penting yang Obama terapkan, seperti reformasi Kesehatan, kebijakan luar negeri, dan upaya mengatasi perubahan iklim. Serta pidato-pidatonya menunjukkan komitmennya terhadap perubahan positif dan reformasi sosial.
16 reviews
January 23, 2025
This book contains Barack Obama's thoughts and words regarding his stance on various issues and displays his best vision. Obama is also a politician involved in many humanitarian issues. He gives views, expresses opinions, proposes alternatives, offers solutions; but also bravely rejecting, criticizing, and being brave in holding a firm opinion. This book describes references to Obama's thoughts, as well as encapsulating Obama's personality.
340 reviews
January 14, 2019
"Barack Obama: in his own words. The candidate speaks on everything from abortion to the Middle East." This book has been on my to-be-read shelf for ages. A collection of his quotes from appearances, speeches, articles and his own website and writings. Would be interesting to read an update all these years later. And look how young on the cover photo!
9 reviews
December 21, 2023
Kutipan Obama yang paling mengesankan yaitu perihal agama dan politik ," Saya kira tidaklah bijak jika tokoh masyarakat mengenakan bungkus agama sebagai alat untuk melindungi diri dari kritik atau untuk berdialog dengan orang yang tak sepakat dengan mereka". Pemahaman tersebut kerap kali tidak hanya pada aspek politik tapi semua aspek kehidupan dalam upaya mencover diri.
7 reviews
June 22, 2025
Buku ini menyajikan intisari pemikiran Obama tentang beragam isu. Dari politik domestik Amerika Serikat, seperti reformasi kesehatan dan isu-isu sosial, hingga kebijakan luar negeri yang kompleks, termasuk pandangannya tentang perang di Irak, hubungan dengan dunia Islam, hingga tantangan terorisme global.
19 reviews
April 23, 2023
Buku ini berisi tentang ucapan dan pikiran Barrack Obama tentang segala hal. Dikutip dari pidatonya dalam berbagai kesempatan dan acara penting. Sebagai seorang Presiden negara adidaya, tentunya perkataan dan pemikiran yang diutarakan Barack Obama bisa berpengaruh pada dunia.
20 reviews1 follower
August 15, 2023
Buku ini menceritakan pikiran dan ucapan seorang obama dalam berbagai persoaalan, kekurangan dari buku ini hanyalah menceritakan tentang isi/ucapan dari obama tanpa menjelaskan alasan dan dampak dari ucapannya tersebut
11 reviews
March 22, 2024
Menurut saya buku ini cukup menarik karena di dalam nya terdapat banyak kutipan ucapan dan pemikiran seorang Obama dari berbagai sumber, sungguh pemikiran beliau sebagai seorang senator dan presiden negara adidaya dapat menginspirasi saya tentang pendapat saya mengenai beberapa hal
13 reviews
January 9, 2025
Personally, I think this book does not really give a picture of what Barack Obama should be like. The book only gives short quotes related to Barack Obama during his life. However, this does not describe Barack Obama in detail so there is almost no message that can be taken from this book.
Profile Image for Monica Laura.
10 reviews1 follower
October 13, 2018
A little disappointed. There was nothing new about him or his career that eventually led to his presidency. These are quotes, soundbites I had already heard on the news. Meh
Profile Image for DORIS.
245 reviews4 followers
November 8, 2020
HELLO OBAMA MY FRIST PRESIDENT THANKS FOR MAKEING THAT CHANGE. IAM HONOR FOR OUR NEW PRESIDENT. BUT YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MY FRIST ONLY PRESIDENT WITH RESPECT. GOD BLESS LOVE YOU .
Profile Image for Aubrey.
241 reviews
January 30, 2021
Wonderful truth telling book about a wonderful loving man.
Profile Image for Sharon.
44 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2021
An easy read and sell to his fans. One to add to the collection.
4 reviews
October 14, 2021
Gave a good insight into the political workings of the US presidential campaign and election. Was disappointed in the way Obama downplayed the severity of some of the decision making.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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