The Call to Serve: The Life of an American President, George Herbert Walker Bush: A Visual Biography

by Jon Meacham

In honor of the 100th anniversary of George H. W. Bush’s birth, this visually stunning chronicle features never-before-published photos and mementos celebrating the 41st President’s vision of leadership as service to others—curated by the rich storytelling of Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer Jon Meacham.

The lavishly illustrated The Call to Serve is an intimate, illuminating portrait of the 41st U.S. President, a man who was so much more than just his politics. Jon Meacham brings George Herbert Walker Bush vividly to life, including his dedication to political and moral leadership, and to a life marked by the strong values of integrity and respect for others that Bush learned during his childhood.

Bush pursued a life of service to America and to others, including through action in the Pacific during World War II, his political rise in Texas, then his serving as U.S. Ambassador to the UN, envoy to China, director of the CIA, Vice President during the administration of Ronald Reagan, and as President. Set against the historical background of America during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, this book celebrates the legacy of a man whose bedrock beliefs in honesty and respect for the dignity of others led to a life of leadership viewed as a call to serve. Barack Obama said towards the end of Bush's life that he put the country first, throughout his life, "both before he was president, while he was president, and ever since."

Featuring over 450 photographs, a new introduction and commentary throughout by Jon Meacham, as well as narration adapted from his biography of George H. W. Bush, Destiny and Power, this is an essential tribute to a uniquely American life—a story that warrants attention in our own divided time.

Genres: Biography, History, Presidents, Nonfiction, American History, Biography Memoir, Politics

384 pages, Hardcover

First published June 11, 2024

About the author

Jon Ellis Meacham is an American writer, reviewer, historian and presidential biographer who is serving as the Canon Historian of the Washington National Cathedral since November 7, 2021. A former executive editor and executive vice president at Random House, he is a contributing writer to The New York Times Book Review, a contributing editor to Time magazine, and a former editor-in-chief of Newsweek. He is the author of several books. He won the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography for American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House. He holds the Carolyn T. and Robert M. Rogers Endowed Chair in American Presidency at Vanderbilt University.

Reviews

[Moonkiszt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was rather a relief for me, in these precarious times - wherein presidential isn't really all that . . .presidential.

A respectful and nostalgic review of George Herbert Walker Bush's life, from a few generations back through to the years of growing his own family and career. Very much a story told with many photographs and proud smiles, complete with letter excerpts from sweet times and difficult ones. His military service was particularly noted, which I appreciated.

Was pleased to be reminded of the sacrifices of those who spend most of their lives in public service to our country - they are damned if they do and damned if they don't, and we never say thank you, just vote them out. Some deserve a bigger wave than others, for sure. Politics seems to be a tricksie life to choose, but someone has to do it. . .and Jon Meacham's 24-year look back shows that George HW Bush was one of our better choices, and a good man who gave his best to these United States.

*A sincere thank you to Jon Meacham, Random House Publishing, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #TheCalltoServe #NetGalley

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

In observance of President George Herbert Walker Bush's 100th birthday, this book, which combines excerpts from Mr. Meacham's biography of the former President and unseen photos and memories of the 41st President and Barbara Bush's private diaries and family members memories, is a loving look at a man who was called to serve from a young age and how he rose to that call and carried it out to the best of his ability.

This book was a real joy to look through - the photo's alone were amazing and seeing the man from infancy until right before he died really gave insight to who he was [the notes that accompanied each photo were really insightful as well] and seeing all the photo's of their children [and the later, larger full family photos], including Robin, the child that died of leukemia at age 3 [those photos, and the accompanying story and remembrances were just heartbreaking] was really fun as well.

As someone who was not a fan of the man as President, but softened on him as the years went by [and by his willingness to do things with other Presidents; visiting the tsunami victims in Indonesia with former President Clinton showed me a different side of him, and the reading of this book also added to that], this book was some good insight into his life and an excellent tribute to the 41st President and is a well-done restrspective.

I was invited to read/review this book by the publisher Random House Publishing Group - Random House, and I thank them, Jon Meacham, and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Chad Manske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon Meacham's "The Call to Serve: The Life of an American President, George Herbert Walker Bush: A Visual Biography" is a compelling exploration of the life and legacy of the 41st President of the United States. This book is a visual feast, combining stunning photographs with insightful narrative to paint a comprehensive portrait of George H.W. Bush. Meacham, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author renowned for his presidential biographies, brings his keen understanding of history and politics to this project. He delves into the defining moments of Bush's life with a balanced perspective, capturing both the triumphs and challenges that characterized his presidency and personal journey. The book chronicles Bush’s early years, his service in World War II, his ventures in the oil industry, and his eventual rise to political prominence, culminating in his presidency. The visual elements of this biography are particularly noteworthy. The carefully curated photographs, many of which are rare or previously unpublished, provide an intimate glimpse into Bush's life. These images not only complement Meacham's narrative but also enhance the reader's understanding of the era's historical context. They vividly illustrate key moments, from Bush's diplomatic endeavors to his interactions with world leaders and his personal moments with family and friends. Meacham's writing is engaging and accessible, making the book appealing to both history buffs and casual readers. He balances scholarly research with storytelling, offering a narrative that is both informative and emotionally resonant. The book doesn’t shy away from discussing controversies and criticisms faced by Bush, ensuring a nuanced portrayal that acknowledges his complexities. Overall, "The Call to Serve" stands out as a thoughtful tribute to George H.W. Bush, offering readers a multifaceted view of a president whose life was marked by a profound sense of duty and service. This visual biography is an enriching addition to the literature on American presidents, providing a vivid and comprehensive account of Bush's enduring impact on both the nation and the world.

[JoAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

In observance of President George H.W. Bush’s 100th birthday historian and Pulitzer Prize winning author Jon Meacham has written “The Call to Serve.” The book combines material from Meacham’s extensive 2015 biography of President Bush, “Destiny and Power” with family photos, campaign memorabilia, and mementos from the Bush family and Pres. Bush’s Presidential Library and Museum in Texas. As the book’s title implies, the focus is on Bush’s long and storied career in the military, in business, and in politics and his desire to serve his country, his family, and the Republican Party throughout his life, starting as a young pilot in World War II and finishing as a quiet counselor to men who succeeded him as President.
I found “The Call to Serve” entertaining and nostalgic. President George Herbert Walker Bush was the product of a different time, our last president of the World War II generation. He was by no means perfect, but he sought to do good for his country and its people, even as he worked through political firestorms and global changes and power struggles.

Thank you to Random House and NetGalley for an advance copy for review.

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delight to read and learn about the 41st president of the United States. It’s very well-written, researched and paced. It’s very informative giving you insight on Bush's family life, his desire to serve our country, business and his time in politics.
Unbeknownst prior to reading, The Call To Serve is meant to be a complement to Jon Meachman's detailed biography of Bush- Destiny and Power.
Nonetheless this book was an absolute pleasure to read about our last president to come from the greatest generation and our last president to serve in WWll. Highly recommend reading regardless of one's politics.

Thank you #NetGalley and #Randomhouse for the opportunity to read #TheCallToServe. It’s a read I’ll cherish.

[Tracy Montefour · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good especially if you like presidential bios or history in general. I was too wrapped up in my own life to pay attention when the first President Bush was in office. Reading his story now makes me appreciate him as a leader, former president and as an all around kind and decent man. The pictures in the book are very interesting and make the book.

[Fredr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful summary of a great leader. Wish we had more selfless leaders like him and Gerald Ford. Can no longer support the Republican Party who have made it mean and vindictive.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This beautiful book commemorates the life and service of George H. W. Bush, drawing in part on “Destiny and Power,” the biography of President Bush published by Meacham in 2015. In addition to the highlights from his biography, the majority of this book includes a collection of pictures (over 450), documents, and extensive captions of family stories, descriptions, and experiences memorializing his life. With this in mind, if you listen to the audiobook, you will miss the majority of the book. President Bush was driven, athletic, competitive, principled, hard-working, service-oriented, faithful, and a man of integrity. He lived a life of public service: WWII navy pilot, UN ambassador, CIA director, U.S. envoy to China, vice president, and president. I loved his moderate politics, willingness to compromise, and his philosophy of servant leadership, all of which seem long gone in current politics. “He embraced compromise as a necessary element of public life, engaged his political foes in the passage of important legislation, and was willing to break with the base of his own party in order to do what he thought was right, whatever the price.” What a refreshing thought. I loved hearing more about Barbara, seeing him as a dad, and learning about his grace and goodwill. Some random things I loved: the picture of President and Barbara Bush with their grandkids piled in their bed (and surrounded by books) on a Saturday morning in Kennebunkport; President Bush doing parachute jumps every 5 years from his 75-90 birthdays (love it!); President Clinton and Bush coming together for philanthropic work; and this quote: “There is but one just use of power, and it is to serve people.” What an honorable man and a gem of a memento honoring him.

Favorite quotes:

-“To serve and to serve well is the highest fulfillment we can know.” George Herbert Walker Bush

-“Make us strong to do Your work, willing to heed and hear Your will, and write on our hearts these words: ‘Use power to help people.’ For we are given power not to advance our own purposes, nor to make a great show in the world, nor a name. There is but one just use of power, and it is to serve people. Help us to remember it, Lord. Amen.” p. xviii, Part of Bush’s prayer opening his presidency

-“What is critical to understand about Bush is that winning was not the end of his endeavors, but the means—the way by which he could bring a sense of decency and dignity to a public arena often bereft of both.” p. xviii

-“I take as my guide the hope of a saint: In crucial things, unity; in important things, diversity; in all things, generosity.” p. xxii

-“The price of democracy is to lose graciously as well as to win humbly; to understand that the nation cannot long endure if one person or one party sees the give-and-take of democracy as an occasion only to take. This is not a partisan point. George H. W. Bush was a Republican, yes, but a Republican who believed his office transcended party and who was able to govern with remarkable results with a Congress controlled by the opposite party…his example offers us lessons in how both leaders and the led can make advances despite differences of party, of background, and of ideology.” p. xx

-“He embraced compromise as a necessary element of public life, engaged his political foes in the passage of important legislation, and was willing to break with the base of his own party in order to what he thought was right, whatever the price.” p. xxiii refreshing statement

-“I remember working far harder at Yale than I would have if I hadn’t been in the service and gotten married. I went through yale in two and one half years—drive by the fact that I wanted to get out and support my little family.” p. 36

-Of his wife – “Bar’s different though…She lives quite frankly for Georgie and myself. She is wholly unselfish, beautifully tolerant of my weaknesses and idiosyncrasies, and ready to faithfully follow any course I choose….I have had a change to make many shrewd moves in my young life, but when I married Bar I hit the proverbial jackpot.” p. 37

-“This mean humorless philosophy which says everybody should agree on absolutely everything is not good for the Republican Party or for our State. When the word moderation becomes a dirty word we have some real soul searching to do.” Bush after his 1964 defeat in a Texas Senate campaign

-Some of Bush’s summarized lessons of Watergate for his sons – “Listen to your conscience. Don’t be afraid not to join the mob—if you feel inside it’s wrong. Don’t confuse being ‘soft’ with seeing the other guy’s point of view.” p. 102

-Barbara’s commencement speech at Wellesley College: “Whatever the era, whatever the times, one thing will never change: Fathers and mothers, if you have children—they must come first. You must read to your children, hug your children, and you must love your children. Your success as a family, our success as a society, depends not on what happens in the White House, but on what happens inside your house.” p. 243

-Love the story of Barbara reading the Constitution’s preamble with a recently literate son of a former sharecropper at an event commemorating the bicentennial of the Constitution, to help him with his nerves. As he grew more comfortable, Barbara continuously lowered her voice until he was reading it wholly on his own. “J.T. Pace had found his voice in part because Barbara Bush had lent him her heart.” p. 245

-Handwritten note of “advice to young people” including: give someone else a hand—when a friend is hurting, show you care; as you succeed be kind to people—thank those who help you along the way; don’t talk all the time, listen to your friends and mentors and learn from them; don’t be afraid to shed a tear when your heart is broken because a friend is hurting; say your prayers. p. 314

[Sybil Finemel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Call to Serve the Life of an American President, George Herbert Walker Bush: A Visual Biography

by Jon Meacham
(This review is from an ARC from Netgalley)
“In honor of the one hundredth anniversary of George H. W. Bush’s birth, this visually stunning chronicle features never-before-published photos and memories celebrating the forty-first president’s vision of leadership as service to country—curated by Pulitzer Prize–winning biographer Jon Meacham.” (Penguin Random House)
Bush was always popular and personable, he hated showiness and confrontation. He was a family man and this is obvious from all the images in the book. He lost his run for senate in 1950 but would win in 1952.
After his defeat in Texas in 1964 said” This mean humorless philosophy which says everybody should agree on absolutely everything is not good for the Republican party or for our state. When the word moderation becomes a dirty word
we have some soul searching to do” Beginning in 1944, Bush served in the Pacific theater, where he flew a Grumman TBF Avenger, a torpedo bomber.
From the ambassadorship to the United Nations to the chairmanship of the Republican National Committee to envoy to China, to director of the CIA during the presidency’s of Nixon and Ford. These posts taught him diplomacy This period was the Cold War and a changing geopolitical reality. These posts also taught him about human relationships.
Bush’s task in 1973-74 was to defend President Nixon during the Watergate scandal. Bush urged Nixon to resign.
During his presidency the Berlin Wall falls, marking the symbolic end of Communist rule in Eastern Europe.
Some of the highlights of his Presidency were:
Americans with Disabilities Act
President Bush signs the Americans with Disabilities Act, which affects over 43 million Americans and forbids discrimination in employment, public accommodations, and transportation.
Clean Air Act Signed
Nuclear arms reduction treaty (START-I) which calls for both nations to make significant reductions in the number of nuclear warheads in their respective arsenals.
George H. W. Bush said ON LIFE
"Be bold in your caring, be bold in your dreaming and above all else, always do your best."

[Brandon Westlake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book that America needs and George H.W. Bush deserves. For Americans, to read this book is to read about a true stateman, a humble leader, and a man of conviction. This is not to say that Bush's life and presidency where without faults, nor is it a declaration that those faults should not be interacted with. Rather, he provides an example for several traits that seem to be sorely lacking in American society, especially by people of influence today. For Bush, it explores his personality and his character better than other books about him. To be fair, history is just starting to grapple with his legacy as president and as public servant, but Meacham's work sets a high bar.
Critics may see this book as hagiography, but they cannot deny the true essence of personality that comes across in these pages. The book takes the best traits of biography and combines it with great photography and historical analysis.
The greatest takeaway from this book is that Bush, through Meacham's writing, can be used as a roadmap for future servants to the cause of Americans and American democracy.
A personal note: if you haven't read Destiny and Power, it may be worthwhile to read this first, and then follow up with that book. This book distills the essential story from that larger work.

[Arthur Morrill III · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Call to Serve: The Life of an American President, George Herbert Walker Bush: A Visual Biography,” by Jon Meacham (ASIN: B0CGT5K9YS; ISBN: 9780593729458), Publication Date: 28 May 2024, earns four stars.

This is really a different kind of biography in that it is photo-heavy, which give the reader a “you were there” sense when reading the narrative. The story, though, is in many ways unique. George H. W. Bush is not a typical politician who is self-focused. Instead, it is a story of selfless service, one in which Bush works across the seams of government, across the aisle in Congress, even in positions he wouldn’t rather not have done but did because there was a need there for the general good. Some might say this type of politician no longer exists, but this reader concludes differently, i.e., it give us a model we can emulate. True, no person, let alone a person in politics, is perfect or without flaws, but this well done work documents even still, selfless goodness can come from each of us.

[Leslie Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a quick read, though. I listened to the audiobook. I came out with the most incredible respect for George Herbert Walker Bush. Whatever you might’ve thought when he was in office, read this read the truth and the thoughts this is no one’s opinion, but straight quotes from things that were said and document it. George Herbert Walker Bush was obviously a man of education of integrity of kindness, and the kind of person we need more often in the oval office. I come about as close as I can to worshiping this person though I know that’s not something we are supposed to do. He’s the epitome of a good man. Many of his quotes reminded me of the types of things Winston Churchill would say. This was a man of great faith, service, integrity, and courage, though most people bought the bill of goods that the news would say about him being a “wimp.”There is nothing wimpy about this man. read the book. Learn something. Jon Meacham presented him as someone worthy of a second look. it was a great book.

[Nelson Nantanapibul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was in high school when Bush 41 was in office. I was not old enough to vote, but from an early age, I had taken an interest in politics and current events. As I got older, my political leanings skewed toward the left. I have been a lifelong Democrat but have always been interested in exploring and understanding other points of view.

Bush 41 was one of the last Republican conservative presidents to truly believe in country over party. The GOP of today is a far cry of the GOP of his day. He was conservative but not fanatical and was weary of the more extreme factions within the party, which were once shunned but now reign supreme.

His presidency lasted one term because of a lagging economy. Overall, he was a decent man. An imperfect public servant and the last of his kind. He was a war hero and the last serving president who served in the military. If you're a political nerd or are interested in American history, then this is an insightful and nostalgic look at the life of George W. Bush.

[Mark Harwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won an advanced copy. It's gorgeously photographed, politically well-balanced, and respectful. In fact, it is just the book I need this rejection year. "The mechanisms of media were changing [by the late 1980s]," Meacham writes, "giving more influence to the most extreme voices. The country, always divided, was becoming ever more polarized. [...] Yet [Pres. Bush] embraced compromise as a necessary element of public life, engaged his political foes in the passage of important legislation, and was willing to break with the base of his own party in order to do what he thought was right, whatever the price." Bush is quoted by Meacham: "A unity of opinion is impossible. A unity of purpose, however, is achievable, even if the nation inevitably differs on how to fulfill that purpose. [...] I do not mistrust the future; I do not fear what is ahead. For our problems are large, but our heart is larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater."

[Andrea Engle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This splendidly illustrated biography of George Herbert Walker Bush by the gifted historian Jon Meacham gets right to the heart of things … worth reading for the pictures alone … for a more serious approach check out Meacham’s other book on the subject, “Destiny and Power” …

by Jon Meacham

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Call to Serve” by Jon Mechanical honors the 41st president of the United States, George Bush. The inspiration of this photo collection is taken from Mecham’s biography of Bush. Regardless of one’s politics, the ethos of The Greatest Generation was strong in Bush and that merits honor. And Mecham honors the man well. Thank you to #netgalley and #randomhouse for the opportunity to preview this book.

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is well researched and written. It gives an overview of the life of President George Herbert Walker Bush. It is meant as a companion book to the author's more detailed biography of Bush. It contains over 400 pictures of the President throughout his life and I got as much from the photo captions as I did from the overview in each chapter. A good addition to anyone interested in Presidential biographies.

[Reading Fool · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.

This is an excellent biography of George HW Bush, who was an American who sincerely wanted to serve his country even though his presidency was flawed (whose isn't?). The story is accompanied by many wonderful photographs portraying his personal and public lives. A great celebration of the 100th anniversary of Bush's birth. I enjoyed the unbiased writing of Pulitzer Prize winner Jon Meacham.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read. I have been so disillusioned by the current political climate. This book reminded me why it’s imperative that we engrave the process and fight for decency. Without it our Republic is doomed.

Thank you Jon Meacham for your work to remind us.

Thank God for the example of George and Barbara Bush.

They might not be saints in the religious sense, but they are in pantheon of our Republic.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Call to Serve was published in honor of George H. W. Bush's 100 anniversary of his birth. I have not read Mr. Meacham's biography Destiny of Power, so found this book informative and have a new appreciation for the former President. Even if you have read Destiny of Power, I think you would still enjoy this book for over the 450 pictures. Now want to read Destiny of Power.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quicker read than I would have assumed, this book does a lot of its story telling through vignettes and captions. Many more gaps in Bush's life are filled by captions that I would have anticipated. That being said, it is still a fairly enjoyable read with a lot of personal detail that is hard to find in other places. Definitely worth checking out.

[Earl Ecklund III · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book full of pictures, many of which I had never seen before, along with a very condensed text taken from Meacham's bio of Bush 41 (Destiny and Power) plus sone new text to discuss Bush 41's death and funeral. Well worth the time just for the beautiful photos of Bush, his family (the pics of Robin, the daughter who died young of leukemia are especially touching) and his long career.

[Koren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jon Meacham wrote a previous biography of George H. W. Bush. That one is quite thick. I haven't read it but I'm sure this is the same information, but this one is called a visual biography because it is mostly pictures. As time goes by, I respect the guy more and more. He was a good person, whether you agree with his politics or not.

[Laurie Reuben · Rating 4 out of 5]

So encouraging to revisit the days when political adversaries were civil and even supportive of one another. When the peaceful transfer of power could be assumed, and we didn’t have to wonder if it was possible, those were the good old days. Republicans and Democrats understood the importance of collaboration and cooperation. That’s leadership.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an uplifting book about a great public servant. In the days of politicians who are devoted to themselves or the party, it is refreshing to remember a president who tried to do the right thing for the country.
The book is well written and approachable. The photographs help as well. A great introduction to one of the great leaders of our nation.

[Beth Gubbins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent biography, this was on the lighter side, gave a broad view of the 41st President's life. Not one for deeper policy decision making, but gave his general p I litical philosophy and shared some of the tragedies that influenced his life. Also went into a broad view of his career. It was an interesting read.

[Julie Gavin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Definitely not Meacham's finest work. Considering the man had wanted to be president nearly his entire adult life & was known for being emotional, I know more about his time & feelings about being a navy pilot than I do about his time in the presidency. The author only very briefly talks about the events of 1988-1992, and revealed very little of Bush's feelings about his time in office.

[Vanessa Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent SHORT biography of a president. If books like this existed for each president, I would read every one. It gave a brief synopsis of each phase of President Bush's life and included an appropriate amount of information on his wife and children. It included many things and stories I'd heard before and some I hadn't. This was so well done!

[Anne S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much of this book is told in pictures which made it a quick read. This book is well researched and well told. George H. W. Bush became more popular after his time in the White House after he was no longer viewed through only his politics.

[Charlie Nagelschmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anything 41 by Meacham is worth reading regardless of party affiliation. This is about an American President. Bonus is if you listen to the audio version it is read by the author giv8ng all the nuances and insights.