Paul Wellstone: The Life of a Passionate Progressive

by Bill Lofy

"Paul Wellstone, we miss you. Few politicians, especially these days, are as willing to stand up and speak the truth as Wellstone was. In this era of flaccid rhetoric and pre-approved sound bites, he had the rare ability to ignite a fire in his audiences. Bill Lofy's excellent biography rekindles that fire and reminds us just how much politicians of Wellstone's honesty, character, and spine are needed---now more than ever. This book should inspire a new generation of voters and political leaders alike."
---Arianna Huffington, columnist and editor of HuffingtonPost.com

"This book captures the vibrant spirit of my friend Paul Wellstone---the fierce commitment to justice that defined his life, and that shapes his enduring legacy."
---U.S. Senator Russ Feingold

"Paul Wellstone was a great leader because he fused progressive idealism with a stubbornly pragmatic politics. Bill Lofy's book captures that dual commitment in his story of Wellstone's life, and also shows us the extraordinary human appeal that Wellstone emanated in his relationships with people in all walks of life. This book is an engaging read that also tells us a lot about the political practice to which we should aspire."
---Frances Fox Piven, author of The War at Home

"This vividly written book captures the life and personal qualities of the late Senator Paul Wellstone. In so doing it provides an illuminating gloss on Max Weber's seminal exposition of the political vocation. It is a jewel of a book."
-Fred Greenstein, Princeton University


Bill Lofy's fast-paced and readable biography tells the inspirational story of one of the most compelling figures in the history of American politics---Senator Paul Wellstone.

Yet Lofy's book is more than just the chronicle of Wellstone's life and political career; it's also an indispensable guide to what ails political life today. Readers politically inclined or not will find in its pages a handbook to the uncertain and often treacherous business of politics and a stirring example for living a courageous and honest life---whether as public servant or private individual.

Genres: Biography, Politics, History, Nonfiction

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Max Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great bio of a great man! I also picked the right time to read this - it seems like Wellstone filled a void in the Democratic Party that seems quite similar to the void that exists today. Feeling optimistic after reading this one.

[Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Passionate, yes. The author paints a praiseful picture however Wellstone was a singular politician. Good bio, but more a tribute

[Jack Sinclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

[Zach Feece · Rating 3 out of 5]

More of a tribute than a biography, but still a well done book about a great man. Wellstone was an absolute beast.

[Brett Rowlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick and enjoyable read. Paul Wellstone, love him or hate him, was the type of politician we need more of. I'm a little bias, because Wellstone is very much a hero of mine. But if you're into politics, I encourage you to take the time to read this book. The selected speeches at the end of the book were amazing!

[Mike Edwards · Rating 2 out of 5]

A short biography written by a personal friend of Wellstone shortly after Wellstone's tragic death. I did learn some new information about Wellstone, a man I very much admire, although the book is at times so gushing in its praise that it annoyed even me. The book made me yearn for a more thorough and balanced look at Wellstone's life, career, and impact.

[Jim · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was good not great, but Wellstone's story is inspiring and frankly I needed something like this in these dark political times.

[Karl · Rating 5 out of 5]

A solid book about one of the best men to make it to the United States Senate. May not be worth the read for beautiful writing, but worth the read because Paul's story is one we should all know.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

An inspiring and well written book. Makes me wish I had followed Wellstone more closely when he was alive. Great quotes from both Wellstone and others.

[Andy Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great, succinct summary of this great man's life and work.