Barack and Joe: The Making of an Extraordinary Partnership

by Steven Levingston

From the Washington Post editor and author of Kennedy and King, a vivid and inspiring account of the bromance that developed between Barack Obama and Joe Biden, which captured Americans' imagination and was unlike any President-Vice President relationship in American history. The extraordinary partnership of Barack Obama and Joe Biden is unique in American history. The two men, their characters and styles sharply contrasting, formed a dynamic working relationship that evolved into a profound friendship. Their affinity was not predestined. Obama and Biden began wary of each other, as senators each eyeing a run at the presidency. Obama was an impatient freshman disdainful of the Senate's plodding ways; Biden was a veteran of the chamber and proud of its traditions. But gradually they came to respect their competitor's values and strengths and rode into the White House together in 2008. Side-by-side through two tension-filled terms, they shared the day-to-day joys and travails of leading the most powerful nation on earth. They accommodated each other's quirks: Biden's famous miscues kept coming, and Obama overlooked them knowing they were insignificant except as media fodder. With his expertise in foreign affairs and legislative matters, Biden took on an unprecedented role as chief adviser to Obama, reshaping the vice presidency. As Obama and Biden took Americans through events like the dire economic crisis, a racially charged arrest of a black Harvard professor, and the president's change of heart on gay marriage, they weathered strains on their own relationship and experienced joy and sadness together, including the death of Biden's son Beau. In the Trump era, as many Americans look back at the Obama presidency with a nostalgic eye, Barack and Joe offers a new look at this administration, its absence of scandal, dedication to truth, and respect for the media. Based on original interviews, media reports, memoirs, and other accounts, it is the first book to tell the full story of this historic relationship and its substantial impact on the Obama presidency and its legacy.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, History, Biography, Presidents, Autobiography, Collections

Audio CD

First published October 8, 2019

About the author

Steven Levingston is a former senior book editor of the Washington Post and author of "Barack and Joe," "Kennedy and King", and "Little Demon in the City of Light". He has lived and worked in Beijing, Hong Kong, New York, Paris, and Washington and reported and edited for the Wall Street Journal and International Herald Tribune.

Reviews

[Raymond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barack and Joe is a great refresher about the real life bond between the former president and vice-president. Levingston's book chronicles the relationship by highlighting important events from their days in the Senate to the more current moment of Biden deciding to run for President in the 2020 cycle. The author does a great job recounting the veepstakes process of Obama picking Biden to be his running mate. I believe it was the first detailed account that I have read of the negotiations between the two as well as the debates between campaign staff.

It is impossible not to read this book in the context of the 2020 election. This is not a biased book for or against Biden as a presidential candidate. I commend the author for being fair, it covers the positive aspects of Biden while also reminding the reader of the many gaffes he has said in the past that people may have forgotten. As the author mentions in the book, this is definitely a first draft of the relationship between the two individuals. I look forward to reading a larger book that focused on additional events in detail such as their discussions/debates during the Bin Laden raid, the Libya intervention, the BP oil spill and other major events, more along the lines of Peter Baker's Days of Fire: Bush and Cheney in the White House, which recounts the Bush-Cheney years and their relationship. Overall, if you are looking for an enjoyable and nostalgic book about the interracial Batman and Robin then look look no further than Levingston's work.

Thanks to Hachette Books and Net Galley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lorna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barack and Joe: The Making of an Extraordinary Partnership by Steven Levingston was a wonderful look at the evolving relationship between Barack Obama and Joseph Biden. In the interest of full disclosure, it must be shared that I have been a huge fan of Joe Biden from his beginning days in the Senate and through today while he is a presidential candidate. Mr. Levingston analyzes the wariness between the two senators, Biden and Obama, as both were eyeing a run for the presidency, one a seasoned politician and the other, a relative newcomer exploding on the national scene. This book does a wonderful job in examining the differences but highlighting how they complemented one another and as such, were invaluable to one another and also the country. Because I live in Denver, I was given credentials to the Democratic National Convention in 2008 in exchange for a lot of campaign work for the Obama/ Biden campaign, basically a quid pro quo.! This book does a great job in analyzing the years of the Obama presidency and the close relationship that was forged between these two men and how that not only benefitted Obama and Biden, but also the country during the tension-filled eight years of this presidency. When they came into power, the country was deep in recession, banks were failing, Osama bin Laden was still at large, and wars were raging in Iraq and Afghanistan. Levingston emphasizes how Joe Biden changed the scope of the vice-presidency as never before. It was during this time that they forged a far-reaching reform of health care that gave relief to countless Americans, revolutionized how we look at marriage and expanding gay rights. It was in many ways, a sad time with the many school shootings and the flare-ups of racial violence throughout the country. But throughout all of this the warm friendship between these two men only deepened, as did the relationship between their families.

"Breaking with two centuries of presidential history, Barack and Joe found a way through the thicket of high office and politics to form a lasting bond."

"He turned towards Barack, addressing him: 'There's a Talmudic saying that says what comes from the heart enters the heart. Mr. President, you have creeped into our heart--you and your whole family--and you occupy it. It's an amazing thing that happened. . . I never fully expected that you'd occupy the Bidens' heart--all of us.'"

[Betsy]

Ooh, Hachette and NetGalley just approved me for this hot upcoming (b)romance novel :p



Sweet! Thanks for the DRC!

[Nancy Rankin · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 stars because it is very good and 1 extra star because I cry for what we have lost over the past four years.

[Stanjay Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

After engaging with this thoroughly researched book detailing the alliance between two vastly different men who secured their legacy as potentially the most effective president and vice president team in American political history, numerous concepts deeply resonated with me. These include the essence of learning curves, the importance of embracing differences, the value of decency, intelligence, leadership, and mutual respect. Observations from the book reveal how these two figures, initially disparate in their approaches and backgrounds, cultivated a remarkable friendship that underpinned their professional partnership.

Their journey from the Senate to high office demonstrated an evolving mutual admiration and highlighted their ability to navigate and leverage their differences to foster a genuine connection. The book meticulously chronicles the development of their relationship, offering insights into how their personal dynamics influenced and enriched their professional collaboration. The portrayal of their interactions, even when in disagreement, epitomizes the potential for civil discourse and respect in setting a positive example for American politics. The narrative, imbued with moments of civility and respect often deemed rare in the political sphere, provided an uplifting reading experience, underscoring the transformative power of healthy discourse.

[Genevieve Trono]

Barack and Joe is an intimate look at the making of the powerful partnership between Barack Obama and Joe Biden. It shares both the professional and personal journey these two went on as they navigated a campaign, a presidency, family loss, and day to day life challenges.

I appreciated that it looked at both the highs and lows and enjoyed that at first, they weren't quite sure of one another as they were both eyeing a run at the presidency. Watching their connection unfold as Barack eventually chooses Biden as his running mate was so interesting to see and just like any relationship, it didn't all happen perfectly.

I loved reading this and it was a wonderful reminder of two men that are honest, fair and just good people during their time in office and beyond. It was a bit bittersweet as it made me miss parts of our country that feel so different just a few years later. If you are also looking for a reminder of the good, this is a great place to start.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Books for an advanced copy.

[Everydayreader1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books are just worth staying up all night to read. Barack and Joe: The Making of an Extraordinary Partnership by Steven Levingston is one of those. It is the story of two very different men from different backgrounds coming together as President and Vice President of the United States to serve as a team for eight years in office. Two men who, at first seemed to have little in common other than their membership in the United States Senate, but who became "brothers" in every way that matters. This book is not about the politics of that relationship, but how it came to be. Steven Levingston brings to life the character of these men. Who they are and what they believe. It's an excellent read, especially if you need a reminder of what character and public service are all about.

[Debra Saturday · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nowadays, it is common to see the words, ' Don't you miss these guys?' when referring to Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Indeed, I think we do miss them. Even the other side of the aisle in Congress probably wishes the political world was a be more polite as it was with the former President and the former Vice President.

In this book, Mr. Levingston goes into deliberate detail as to what made Mr. Obama and Mr. Biden, the team. And yes, it was a team, yet it was a long time in the making.

The book acknowledges how these political men were different, and yet as time tells, the subtleties of their beliefs became apparent. How these similarities played out is what makes them the dream team.

Mr. Levingston tells and shows how they worked out their differences to provide the best they had for the country. Their prime focus was taking the country into a stable place in the world. While Obama needed Biden's international experience, Biden needed Mr. Obama's fresh take and youthful energy.

"Barack and Joe" is not a 'buddy' or 'bromance' book. It is a book that shows you how it all happened, and most importantly, why it needed to happen. The writing is clear, concise, and entertaining. You can see how it all played out, and you enjoy the ride getting there.

I have recommended: (five green books) 📗📗📗📗📗.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful look inside the relationship between our recent president and his VP. Mr. Levingston did a great job of highlighting what went into making this bond, the good and the bad, and what made it so unique. I revisited cherished moments of their administration and learned some news things about each man. And, I'll tell you, if you don't cry at Mr. Levington's description of Beau's funeral or Joe's Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony, something might be wrong with you. My appreciation for and understanding of both men, and their families, increased quite a bit. I really enjoyed the unique perspective in what is basically a history of the Obama-Biden presidency.

Thanks to NetGalley and Hatchette Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.

[Cozy Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a exquisite book detailing the wonderful respect and friendship between our great President Obama and Vice President Biden that grew from their patriotism and love of country. Both men had a deep respect for each other and this chronicles their road to friendship and how they shared the same patriotism morals (and beliefs) to serve our country. It is a wonderful read of a great time in our history of our greatest President in 50 years and his working relationship with a equally great Vice President. I highly recommend this book. This is a wonderful book to give as gifts and to have as a hard cover for one's own library. Very well done to the author. .

Thank you for the ARC. My opinion is my own.

[Jean]

I love this book so much! I respect these two men completely. You
will be so happy at their amazing friendship! This book does
not disappoint explaining how their close friendship just kept
growing. I deeply enjoyed reading about them again as I have
missed them so much!

Thank you so much, the writer, NetGalley and the Publisher for
giving me the opportunity to read about these men again!

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

For one who loved the dynamic duo, this is a book that enlightens and enhances what on behind closed doors, how their beliefs intertwined and lots more. If you loved Barack in office, you will love this book.

Brilliant book! Truly brilliant!

[Hanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I work in Democratic politics, Joe Biden is my hero – I'm basically the target audience for this book. It was fine.

The book didn't feel particularly well-researched – like Levingston had pulled bits and pieces from previously written articles and loosely tied it all together to form the basis of this book. I didn't feel like I knew either Obama or Biden better after reading this book, but maybe that's just because I already knew so much about them. And it's not like this book purports to be a true biography. I felt like Biden was more fully sketched out in the book than Obama was.

I would have really enjoyed reading more about the post-presidency relationship between the Obama and Biden, but Levingston barely dances around that subject at the end of the book. Maybe because he wanted to tell a fairly straight-forward and uplifting story and continuing it beyond the end of their second term would have ruined that narrative.

That said, I'd still recommend this book to people who are desperate to revisit the Obama/Biden fairytale. After four years of Donald Trump, it is a feel good story that takes one back to better days.

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hardly ever read non-fiction until a couple of years ago. I really enjoy them once in awhile. Last year I read several about the Trump family, so this year I decided to learn more about the Obama's and Biden's because we mostly only know their political lives. It was obvious that Barack and Joe had a close relationship even in their political lives, but learning about the journey to that close friendship is very interesting. This book also covers many other past president/VP relationships and their actual roles in a short history. Biden is actually my favorite character in this book as I learned that he was the more showy of the two when it came to caring and affection, but it seemed that he brought that characteristic out of Barack slowly over all the years they worked together. Barack was more of an Introvert when they first began working together, where as Joe has always been an Extrovert!

[David Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoroughly enjoyable account of the relationship of the 44th and 46th presidents of the USA, from their first encounter in the Senate until the start of the 2020 Democratic Primaries. Written with fantastic insight, Levingston succeeds in making this book entertaining, thought-provoking and, at times, moving. The only criticism to be made is that some parts seem to be rushed, and other periods of their time together have been omitted entirely.

[Terry Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put this political memoir down as the anecdotes about how the deep friendship between Biden and Obama grew through the course of their eight years together amidst personal tragedy (such as the death of Hunter Biden) and landmark cases (such as the end of DOMA) were so compelling. Levingston is a brilliant writer who captures the personality, strengths, and weaknesses of each man in rich detail. Highly recommended.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent set of stories.
Great to hear and see them recorded in one place.

[Peter Z. · Rating 1 out of 5]

"Absence of scandal"

🤣

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable book about the friendship of two remarkable men. If I have a complaint, it would be that perhaps a bit more respect might have been shown to Mr. Biden. Is it really necessary to compare him to a big hound? I think not. Otherwise: A pleasant and informative book.

[Jonathan R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading these well-told stories of the lives of these two men. It was particularly interesting to learn more about Joe Biden. Levingston brings his readers so close to his subjects that I was surprised to read that neither of them granted him an interview.

[ShannLeigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Though I am probably biased, I thought it was a pretty fair account of history. It wasn’t so much about politics but about the relationship between these two amazing men. It read really well, especially for nonfiction.

[Alina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The political bromance, Barack and Joe's friendship, and collaboration will forever leave its footprint in American history.

Starting from political rivals, the two managed to build a strong foundation of the phenomenal President & Vice President team. This book tells the story of two democratic US senators who came from two completely opposite backgrounds but shared an important mission. This is not a biography of either man, this is a story of their bond, the way they were able to look past their differences, listened and accepted each other's objectives, and most importantly - held one another's back. An author made an excellent note regarding the two: The Barack-and-Joe friendship did something else: it stirred the imagination. It gave Americans hope that the nation could work together harmoniously. Barack and Joe looked beyond color and age and personal quirks to the importance of shared values.

This book is an easy read. I didn't find any new information in it, however, it is a perfect guide for any political enthusiast that contains all the facts of Barack and Joe's friendship and partnership during their time in The Office.

[kristinasbookishlife · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: I received this book complimentary from Hatchett through Netgalley. This is my honest review.

Imagine getting to work with your closest friend? One that becomes more like a brother after being your political rival? I’m sure it was challenging in the beginning and over time became a relationship of trust. It must feel good to have someone you trust being able to watch your back, in what is the most stressful role. This is a book that I have been looking forward to after watching and reading about their blossoming friendship/brotherhood. The memes also kept us craving to understand more of their relationship. This book did not disappoint. It left me missing “Barack and Joe” more than I thought was possible. I walked away knowing more about them and their values. This book made me feel like I was wrapped up in a hug. The author did a really good job of portraying Barack and Joe’s relationship.

[Heidi Lengenfelder · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Books for an eARC of this book for an honest review.

I loved watching the friendship between Obama and Biden over the eight years they shared as President and Vice President. This book does a really great job of chronicling their friendship along the way. It follows their professional and personal journeys. I have always been a big fan of these two and this book solidified my appreciation for them. If you're a fan of these two, pick this book up and you will not be disappointed.

[Phil · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very personal story. If you're looking for policy specifics, this is not the source. That Barack and Joe redefined the relationship between President and his Vice-President is undeniable. Carter and Mondale certainly had a strong partnership and bond. Obama and Biden went beyond, to a deep personal friendship that included their families. Neither granted interviews for the Levingston book. No doubt, the timing of a presidential campaign played into that decision. Still, we are reminded of what was and what we, as a nation, have lost.

[Kyle Lusby · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was intrigued by this book on the heels of what could be a Joe Biden nomination in 2020. The book is short on objective details and similar to a piece of literature that might be released by someone on Joe Biden’s campaign team. To be fair, the book was interesting and entertaining. I did enjoy the read but it was a hyper-partisan bit of reading and had several factual errors — an ISIS video from 2008 (they weren’t around in 2008), Chris Matthews “leg thrill” comment was from the 2008 cycle and not 2004, etc. Entertaining read but not one I’ll be recommending.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

At a time when politics frankly disgust me, I felt the need to delve into the pairing of Barack and Joe. A truly remarkable, unique, and historic political and personal relationship they had while sitting in the highest office of the land. Yes, it was a good reminiscence. It made me wish even harder for such a bond to preside over us again — one that keeps each other in check.

[Linda Hagedorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though not a Democrat myself, I find many endearing qualities in the relationship of these two political partners. I found this read to be insightful into their melding of their strengths and weaknesses.

[Kathryn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was SO looking forward to this book. I nestled into the couch with a blanket and a cup of coffee and dug in.

OH. MY. GOSH.

This was the most boring thing I have ever read. I trudged through it. It did not get better.

Most disappointed I've been in a book in ages.

[Bob Kuster · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a good read on the Obama White House policies, you will want to skip this book. If you are looking for a good read on how two politicians developed a friendship, a deep respect and yes a love for each other and their families, this will be a good read for you.