The Bottom Line
Much to my surprise, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Senator Jesse Helms book "Here's Where I Stand." Perhaps owing to his journalism background, his writing is clear, entertaining and never boring.
Pros
- Overall, a highly enjoyable read
- Beautifully written with clear and compelling language
- Great insight into the thoughts, values and beliefs of an ultra-conservative
- Impressive - this man has personally known some VERY influential people over the years
- Enlightening and inspiring
Cons
- His chapter on race relations hardly spans six pages
- His response to accusations that he has held racist views is not very compelling
Description
- Overall, a highly enjoyable read
- Enlightening and informative
- Illuminating
Guide Review - Here's Where I Stand - A Memoir by Jesse Helms
Senator Jesse Helms has known some very influential people. It was so interesting to read about his early encounters with individuals who would later become U.S. presidents or hold other powerful roles in US government.
The story of his own rise to influence is told with such passion and fire that one can find inspiration in the values and beliefs to which he attributes his own success.
Although I chose to disagree with some of his perspectives (which I felt were overly simplistic and ignorant of the challenges some members of our society face) I nonetheless understood the source of his worldview - which is clearly articulated within each chapter. He paints a clear picture of his upbringing, the values instilled in him by his parents, and his undying passion for American democracy.
The story of his own rise to influence is told with such passion and fire that one can find inspiration in the values and beliefs to which he attributes his own success.
Although I chose to disagree with some of his perspectives (which I felt were overly simplistic and ignorant of the challenges some members of our society face) I nonetheless understood the source of his worldview - which is clearly articulated within each chapter. He paints a clear picture of his upbringing, the values instilled in him by his parents, and his undying passion for American democracy.