Barbara Bush: A Biography

by Pamela Kilian

A biography of the current First Lady describes Mrs. Bush's dark side, her penchant for skewering critics of her husband, her eccentricities, her relationship with George's family, her philosophies on life, and more. 75,000 first printing. $20,000 ad/promo.

Genres: Biography

245 pages, Hardcover

First published July 1, 1992

Reviews

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Her biographer pointed out quite quickly that Barbara Bush was the last First Lady to be a stay at home mother and I thought for sure I knew what as coming, but I was wrong. And I couldn't have been happier about it. It was so nice to read Barbara's thoughts on motherhood, how much she loved it, at times hated it, but never regretted it. She was so honest about how it feels to be home with kids and feel like your brain is turning to mush while your significant other is out there in the adult world, having adult conversations that never include subjects like the contents of the latest diaper, but knowing the investment would be worth it. It was even mentioned that Barbara felt that one of her greatest accomplishments was that all of her children come home. That statement really struck me.This book was written in the early 90's but it hit so many things head on that happen in today's world. She was a champion of the mother without discrediting female empowerment. Can I be Barbara when I grow up?

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in 1992 this book covers the life of Barbara Pierce Bush, born June 8, 1925 to Marvin Pierce and Pauline Robinson. They were well off since her father was in charge of Macmillan Publishing. Her mother was a socialite and she had three siblings.
She was sent away to an all girls school who would be invited to dances. It was 1941 when she met the handsome George Bush. They connected instantly.
He joined the Navy shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor and put his Yale education on hold to do his military service.
They married in January 1945 and George continued his education. Barbara ended her college studies to become a wife and mother with no regrets.
Her love of George was unmeasurable. They moved to Texas where he made a fortune in the oil business. They had six children George W, Pauline (Robin), Jeb, Neil, Marvin and Dorothy (Doro). Robin died at 3 due to leukemia and her loss was felt very deeply.
Barbara fully supported George in their many moves and ran the household with love and encouragement and always reading to the children.
It was after a failed Senate race, the a House of Representatives, reelection to Congress, US Ambassador to the United Nations, Chairman of the Republic National Committee, ambassador to China, head of the CIA and vice presidency and then as 41st President of the United States in 1989-
She made close friends along the way with the wives of important political leaders and stayed a loyal friend. She had a calm and easy manor and always supported her husband with love and pride.
Her biggest contribution was to focus on family literacy and volunteerism. This book ended before the end of the presidential term and the Bushes were looking forward to the future.

[Chris Aylott · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very light biography of the most popular member of the Bush family. The second half is pretty dull, and reads like it was cobbled together from press interviews. (It probably was.) However, the first half is a good portrait of life among the young and moderately well-to-do in the middle of the 20th century. I've always liked Barbara Bush, and I've warmed up to her husband over the years, so it was fun to read about them as a young couple.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this Book very much. Surprised by Mrs. Bush's wonderful sense of humor. I did not read this for political reasons, just curious to learn more about Mrs. Bush.