Rudy! the People's Governor: The Life And Times Of Rudy Perpich

by Betty Wilson

Rudy Perpich was one of Minnesotav?s most flamboyant and beloved governors. In this book, Star Tribune reporter Betty Wilson tells the story of his childhood and the successes, failures and controversies of his three terms as governor.

310 pages, Hardcover

First published October 6, 2005

Reviews

[Rock · Rating 3 out of 5]

As the namesake of my alma mater and the longest-serving Minnesota governor, I've always been curious about Rudy Perpich. So when I discovered this book in the basement of my old office (signed by the author with a personal note to someone who hasn't worked there in 3 or 4 years), I couldn't help but take it home. What I didn't know is that Rudy Perpich is a fascinating character, a fiercely individualistic coalition-builder whose political success probably didn't stem so much from his unique stance on the issues as his grassroots campaigning style. Unfortunately this book is something of a stinker, written by a lifelong Legislature reporter who has difficulty translating her encyclopaedic knowledge of Minnesota politics (what a useful attribute) into a compelling narrative.