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Madam Speaker: Nancy Pelosi and the Lessons of Power
The definitive biography of Nancy Pelosi, the most powerful woman in American political history, written by New York Times bestselling author and USA Today Washington bureau chief Susan Page
Featuring more than 150 exclusive interviews with those who know her best--and a series of in-depth, news-making interviews with Pelosi herself--Madam Speaker is unprecedented in the scope of its exploration of Nancy Pelosi's remarkable life and of her indelible impact on American politics.
Before she was Nancy Pelosi, she was Nancy D'Alesandro. Her father was a big-city mayor and her mother his political organizer; when she encour-aged her young daughter to become a nun, Nancy told her mother that being a priest sounded more appealing. She didn't begin running for office until she was forty-six years old, her five children mostly out of the nest. With that, she found her calling.
Nancy Pelosi has lived on the cutting edge of the revolution in both women's roles and in the nation's movement to a fiercer and more polarized politics. She has established herself as a crucial friend or for-midable foe to US presidents, a master legislator, and an indefatigable political warrior. She took on the Democratic establishment to become the first female Speaker of the House, and then battled rivals on the left and right to consolidate her power. She has soared in the sharp-edged inside game of politics, though she has struggled in the outside game--demonized by conservatives, second-guessed by progressives, and routinely underestimated by nearly everyone.
All of this was preparation for the most historic challenge she would ever face, at a time she had been privately planning her retirement. When Donald Trump was elected to the White House, Nancy Pelosi became the Democratic counterpart best able to stand up to the disruptive president and to get under his skin.
The battle between Trump and Pelosi, chronicled in this book with behind-the-scenes details and revelations, stands to be the titanic political struggle of our time.
Featuring more than 150 exclusive interviews with those who know her best--and a series of in-depth, news-making interviews with Pelosi herself--Madam Speaker is unprecedented in the scope of its exploration of Nancy Pelosi's remarkable life and of her indelible impact on American politics.
Before she was Nancy Pelosi, she was Nancy D'Alesandro. Her father was a big-city mayor and her mother his political organizer; when she encour-aged her young daughter to become a nun, Nancy told her mother that being a priest sounded more appealing. She didn't begin running for office until she was forty-six years old, her five children mostly out of the nest. With that, she found her calling.
Nancy Pelosi has lived on the cutting edge of the revolution in both women's roles and in the nation's movement to a fiercer and more polarized politics. She has established herself as a crucial friend or for-midable foe to US presidents, a master legislator, and an indefatigable political warrior. She took on the Democratic establishment to become the first female Speaker of the House, and then battled rivals on the left and right to consolidate her power. She has soared in the sharp-edged inside game of politics, though she has struggled in the outside game--demonized by conservatives, second-guessed by progressives, and routinely underestimated by nearly everyone.
All of this was preparation for the most historic challenge she would ever face, at a time she had been privately planning her retirement. When Donald Trump was elected to the White House, Nancy Pelosi became the Democratic counterpart best able to stand up to the disruptive president and to get under his skin.
The battle between Trump and Pelosi, chronicled in this book with behind-the-scenes details and revelations, stands to be the titanic political struggle of our time.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published April 20, 2021
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About the author
Susan Page
4 books116 followersSusan Page is the Washington Bureau chief of USA Today, where she writes about politics and the White House. Susan has covered seven White House administrations and in 2024 covered her 12th presidential election. She has interviewed the past ten presidents -- from Richard Nixon through Donald Trump -- and reported from six continents and dozens of foreign countries. (She interviewed three of the presidents after they had left the White House.) In 2020, she moderated the campaign debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. Yes, that was the one with the fly. She frequently appears as an analyst on TV and radio. She's written three books and is working on her fourth, to be published by HarperCollins in April 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
May 26, 2021
I have enjoyed Susan Page’s writing over the years. Page chronicles Pelosi’s career in the straight forward way that journalist do. Page is the Washington Bureau Chief for USA Today.
The book is well written and researched. Page interviewed Pelosi many times for the book. Page was primarily unbiased and reported on proven facts. There is not any muck raking in this book. I am sure this was a difficult book to write. The sections about her beginning in politics in San Francisco was a trip down memory lane. In the sections about her career in Washington D.C., I learned a number of things I was unaware of about Pelosi. If you are interested in politics, this book will be worth the read.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is thirteen hours and forty-two minutes. Susan Page does a good job narrating her book.
The book is well written and researched. Page interviewed Pelosi many times for the book. Page was primarily unbiased and reported on proven facts. There is not any muck raking in this book. I am sure this was a difficult book to write. The sections about her beginning in politics in San Francisco was a trip down memory lane. In the sections about her career in Washington D.C., I learned a number of things I was unaware of about Pelosi. If you are interested in politics, this book will be worth the read.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is thirteen hours and forty-two minutes. Susan Page does a good job narrating her book.
July 30, 2024
I have once again decided to embark on a mission to read a number of books on subjects that will be of great importance to the upcoming 2024 US Presidential Election. This was a great success as I prepared for 2020, with an outcome at the polls (and antics by both candidates up to Inauguration Day) that only a fiction writer might have come up with at the time! Many of these will focus on actors and events intricately involved in the US political system over the last few years, in hopes that I can understand them better and, perhaps, educate others with the power to cast a ballot. I am, as always, open to serious recommendations from anyone who has a book I might like to include in the process.
With the events of July 21, 2024, when Joe Biden chose not to seek re-election, the challenge has become harder to properly reflect the Democratic side. I will do the best I can to properly prepare and offer up books that can explore the Biden Administration, as well as whomever takes the helm into November.
This is Book #18 in my 2024 US Election Preparation Challenge.
Susan Page is back with another stellar biography of a strong woman who impacted the American landscape. Using a plethora of interviews and documentation review, Page offers up a stunning piece about Nancy Pelosi, the most powerful woman in the Legislative Branch of politics. Pelosi was sharp-witted and dedicated to her family and politics, steering both towards challenges and changes on the American landscape. Page shows how determined she was not to be trampled over by anyone, man or woman alike, while rising to a position of power in US politics, making impacts wherever she went. I could not ask for more from Susan Page in this book, the second of her biographies I have read for this reading challenge. Well-done and thoroughly entertaining!
Born Nancy D’Alesandro, the woman who wold become one of the most powerful female politicians of all time, had politics in her veins. Nancy’s father was mayor of Baltimore and a powerful Democrat at a time when the country was changing. The elder Nancy D’Alesandro may have stayed home with the children, but she was also a powerful political organizer, pushing views and making sure young Nancy knew where she ought to stand . While she was a disruption, young Nancy had the smarts to push politics around Maryland, supporting her father as best she could. She was supposed to become a nun but young Nancy’s connection with the Church would never go that far. Still, young Nancy made a point of being a staunch Democratic politics supporter.
Young Nancy saw herself as one who wanted to break ceilings whenever she could. She secured a position on Capital Hill as a secretary, the most she could expect at the time, but she revelled in the politics and how she could be part of the change. Nancy wanted not only to have a job and be independent, but also make a difference for herself and other women. This was slow and never clearly supported, but Nancy D’Alesandro never waned in her beliefs. Her marriage to Paul Pelosi did not change her mind, nor did having five children one after the other. This would surely change Nancy’s focus, but her passions were never extinguished.
A move to San Francisco might have been a different scene for the Pelosis, but their politics only got stronger. Nancy Pelosi was now in the heart of leftist Democratic politics. Pelosi loved being able to make a difference and climbed the ladder of California politics, though never sought elected office. Raising a family, she was always eager to stump for others and made her name one that many sought for help, tough Nancy remained behind the curtain. It was her presence at the 1984 Democratic Convention in San Francisco that helped push her into the limelight for many Democrats around the country. Powerful family ties could now be used as Pelosi rose to national fame.
An opening in a special election for a House seat came in 1987, something that the 47 year-old Pelosi thought she might want to try. Her family was grown and she had a passion for politics, ready to campaign for herself. Pelosi’s success helped her learn the importance of connecting with the local and national base simultaneously. Pelosi pulled on the past her father had when he sat in Congress, as well as the powerful D’Alesandro name in Baltimore politics. Nancy refused to sit quietly, pushing for AIDS research and support, something that many Democrats and President Reagan were not sure they wanted to support. Still, Nancy Pelosi made her name known early and would not disappear any time soon.
Pelosi rose within the House and began pushing the limits as she eyed entering the Democratic leadership. Nancy had been wanting to make a name for herself and sought to keep her feisty nature whenever given the chance. Pelosi wanted to control power and not simply harp about it from the outside. Pelosi fought hard against the Republicans during a trying time when Speaker Gingrich hoped to crush the Democrats and keep the House under his total control. This proved rough, but Nancy would never give up, sure that the winds of change were pointing in her direction. She won role as the Whip as she smashed glass ceilings and kept eyeing higher office, yet never wanted out of the House. Democrats enjoyed their time in power, but the pendulum would swing in other directions, as George W. Bush entered the White House. Pelosi would have to try working with a powerful Republican, yet Bush appeared to have a softer side, which Pelosi used to her advantage.
Further shifts enabled Pelosi to run for and win the speakership of the House of Representatives. Pelosi wanted to stand firm and push the Democrats to passing legislation that would help the country. Bush pushed back in hopes of keeping Pelosi in line, though this was not as easy as it seemed. Pelosi kept her eye on the prize, bringing a Democrat to the White House, while tamping down Republican outrage. She held firm and was able to work with Bush until President Obama made his way into the Oval Office and made sure to work alongside her. Together, they would make a great deal of change, even when it was not easy.
Her toughest time was trying to get Obama’s Affordable Care Act through the House and how that would go in the Senate. Pelosi never backed down, even as the Republicans sought to smear her and vilify the Democrats. She was able to get it through, though it cost the Democrats control of the House that November, which put her position of power in jeopardy. While she would have to be Minority Leader, there were many within the Democratic House group that wanted her own and fresh views at the top. Pelosi would not stand down and fought to show that she could do what was needed to stay at the top, keeping the Democrats together and patiently waiting for the next swing of the pendulum.
Perhaps her most difficult time was serving in the House (and eventually resuming as Speaker) during the time of President Trump. Page repeatedly explores how Pelosi fought against a man who chose to rewrite politics in his own image, which made wading through the waters all the more difficult. Trump loved Pelosi when in front of the camera, but he could not fathom why she would want to attack him so vociferously. They locked horns on most topics, both standing firm in their views. The Trump vs. Pelosi battles continued and got even more heated, which proved to be a high-impact game of politics. Neither could control the other, which made it a battle that no one could easily win. Pelosi kept up her attacks and went o far as to allow her colleagues to draw up Articles of Impeachment, though it took a great deal of time and effort for Pelosi to allow them. This was a move that could not be erased or easily undone. Pelosi drew a line in the sand and held firm as the drama ensued.
Page offers up numerous vignettes during this part of the book and kept repeating that Pelosi had numerous sides to her. She sought to work with all groups with in the Democratic team, which could be tough but also needed as Trump continued used to drive wedges between the Dems and the GOP. Pelosi’s softer side helped push understanding and inclusiveness at a time when the country became even more divided. This was a refreshing look, as there were few chances to simply be nice during the politics minefield.
As politics turned to the 2020 election, the winds of change and power began blowing as powerfully as ever. Pelosi turned to ensuring the House remained focussed not only on being Democratic, but powerfully so, ensuring that whoever ended up in the White House, there would be Democratic control of legislation. The country was torn apart during that campaign and many know of the insurrection that turned politics on its head. Throughout it all, Pelosi stood firm and tried to stay out of the fray as the mud was being slung around. She revered her Democratic Party, but loved her country even more. This would be her passion that she could not forget, no matter what happened.
Susan Page never shies away from the subject matter placed before her. In doing so, she makes sure to explore all sides of the individual and pulls out strong views that shaped their lives. This biography of Nancy Pelosi offers up strong views and wonderful stories that helped the reader see just what Nancy Pelosi loved and how she earned her political gravitas. Pelosi proves to be a passionate politician, with Democratic views coursing through her veins from a young age. Climbing the ladder of power, Pelosi sought to break ceilings and push any impediments aside. Politics, passion, and trying to keep America from sliding into an abyss fuelled her throughout her career. Pelosi never second-guessed herself or those around her, always wanting to make sure she had what was needed to keep America as great as possible. Page’s well-documented chapters and thorough research proves useful as the biography gains momentum. It is clear that the numerous interviews used to stitch things together helped Page offer a full view of the Speaker of the House of Representatives and her numerous passions. I could not have asked for a better biography about yet another strong woman in political arenas. I can only hope that others will agree a they delve into this piece.
Kudos, Madam Page, for a great look at one of America’s most powerful female politicians of all time.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
With the events of July 21, 2024, when Joe Biden chose not to seek re-election, the challenge has become harder to properly reflect the Democratic side. I will do the best I can to properly prepare and offer up books that can explore the Biden Administration, as well as whomever takes the helm into November.
This is Book #18 in my 2024 US Election Preparation Challenge.
Susan Page is back with another stellar biography of a strong woman who impacted the American landscape. Using a plethora of interviews and documentation review, Page offers up a stunning piece about Nancy Pelosi, the most powerful woman in the Legislative Branch of politics. Pelosi was sharp-witted and dedicated to her family and politics, steering both towards challenges and changes on the American landscape. Page shows how determined she was not to be trampled over by anyone, man or woman alike, while rising to a position of power in US politics, making impacts wherever she went. I could not ask for more from Susan Page in this book, the second of her biographies I have read for this reading challenge. Well-done and thoroughly entertaining!
Born Nancy D’Alesandro, the woman who wold become one of the most powerful female politicians of all time, had politics in her veins. Nancy’s father was mayor of Baltimore and a powerful Democrat at a time when the country was changing. The elder Nancy D’Alesandro may have stayed home with the children, but she was also a powerful political organizer, pushing views and making sure young Nancy knew where she ought to stand . While she was a disruption, young Nancy had the smarts to push politics around Maryland, supporting her father as best she could. She was supposed to become a nun but young Nancy’s connection with the Church would never go that far. Still, young Nancy made a point of being a staunch Democratic politics supporter.
Young Nancy saw herself as one who wanted to break ceilings whenever she could. She secured a position on Capital Hill as a secretary, the most she could expect at the time, but she revelled in the politics and how she could be part of the change. Nancy wanted not only to have a job and be independent, but also make a difference for herself and other women. This was slow and never clearly supported, but Nancy D’Alesandro never waned in her beliefs. Her marriage to Paul Pelosi did not change her mind, nor did having five children one after the other. This would surely change Nancy’s focus, but her passions were never extinguished.
A move to San Francisco might have been a different scene for the Pelosis, but their politics only got stronger. Nancy Pelosi was now in the heart of leftist Democratic politics. Pelosi loved being able to make a difference and climbed the ladder of California politics, though never sought elected office. Raising a family, she was always eager to stump for others and made her name one that many sought for help, tough Nancy remained behind the curtain. It was her presence at the 1984 Democratic Convention in San Francisco that helped push her into the limelight for many Democrats around the country. Powerful family ties could now be used as Pelosi rose to national fame.
An opening in a special election for a House seat came in 1987, something that the 47 year-old Pelosi thought she might want to try. Her family was grown and she had a passion for politics, ready to campaign for herself. Pelosi’s success helped her learn the importance of connecting with the local and national base simultaneously. Pelosi pulled on the past her father had when he sat in Congress, as well as the powerful D’Alesandro name in Baltimore politics. Nancy refused to sit quietly, pushing for AIDS research and support, something that many Democrats and President Reagan were not sure they wanted to support. Still, Nancy Pelosi made her name known early and would not disappear any time soon.
Pelosi rose within the House and began pushing the limits as she eyed entering the Democratic leadership. Nancy had been wanting to make a name for herself and sought to keep her feisty nature whenever given the chance. Pelosi wanted to control power and not simply harp about it from the outside. Pelosi fought hard against the Republicans during a trying time when Speaker Gingrich hoped to crush the Democrats and keep the House under his total control. This proved rough, but Nancy would never give up, sure that the winds of change were pointing in her direction. She won role as the Whip as she smashed glass ceilings and kept eyeing higher office, yet never wanted out of the House. Democrats enjoyed their time in power, but the pendulum would swing in other directions, as George W. Bush entered the White House. Pelosi would have to try working with a powerful Republican, yet Bush appeared to have a softer side, which Pelosi used to her advantage.
Further shifts enabled Pelosi to run for and win the speakership of the House of Representatives. Pelosi wanted to stand firm and push the Democrats to passing legislation that would help the country. Bush pushed back in hopes of keeping Pelosi in line, though this was not as easy as it seemed. Pelosi kept her eye on the prize, bringing a Democrat to the White House, while tamping down Republican outrage. She held firm and was able to work with Bush until President Obama made his way into the Oval Office and made sure to work alongside her. Together, they would make a great deal of change, even when it was not easy.
Her toughest time was trying to get Obama’s Affordable Care Act through the House and how that would go in the Senate. Pelosi never backed down, even as the Republicans sought to smear her and vilify the Democrats. She was able to get it through, though it cost the Democrats control of the House that November, which put her position of power in jeopardy. While she would have to be Minority Leader, there were many within the Democratic House group that wanted her own and fresh views at the top. Pelosi would not stand down and fought to show that she could do what was needed to stay at the top, keeping the Democrats together and patiently waiting for the next swing of the pendulum.
Perhaps her most difficult time was serving in the House (and eventually resuming as Speaker) during the time of President Trump. Page repeatedly explores how Pelosi fought against a man who chose to rewrite politics in his own image, which made wading through the waters all the more difficult. Trump loved Pelosi when in front of the camera, but he could not fathom why she would want to attack him so vociferously. They locked horns on most topics, both standing firm in their views. The Trump vs. Pelosi battles continued and got even more heated, which proved to be a high-impact game of politics. Neither could control the other, which made it a battle that no one could easily win. Pelosi kept up her attacks and went o far as to allow her colleagues to draw up Articles of Impeachment, though it took a great deal of time and effort for Pelosi to allow them. This was a move that could not be erased or easily undone. Pelosi drew a line in the sand and held firm as the drama ensued.
Page offers up numerous vignettes during this part of the book and kept repeating that Pelosi had numerous sides to her. She sought to work with all groups with in the Democratic team, which could be tough but also needed as Trump continued used to drive wedges between the Dems and the GOP. Pelosi’s softer side helped push understanding and inclusiveness at a time when the country became even more divided. This was a refreshing look, as there were few chances to simply be nice during the politics minefield.
As politics turned to the 2020 election, the winds of change and power began blowing as powerfully as ever. Pelosi turned to ensuring the House remained focussed not only on being Democratic, but powerfully so, ensuring that whoever ended up in the White House, there would be Democratic control of legislation. The country was torn apart during that campaign and many know of the insurrection that turned politics on its head. Throughout it all, Pelosi stood firm and tried to stay out of the fray as the mud was being slung around. She revered her Democratic Party, but loved her country even more. This would be her passion that she could not forget, no matter what happened.
Susan Page never shies away from the subject matter placed before her. In doing so, she makes sure to explore all sides of the individual and pulls out strong views that shaped their lives. This biography of Nancy Pelosi offers up strong views and wonderful stories that helped the reader see just what Nancy Pelosi loved and how she earned her political gravitas. Pelosi proves to be a passionate politician, with Democratic views coursing through her veins from a young age. Climbing the ladder of power, Pelosi sought to break ceilings and push any impediments aside. Politics, passion, and trying to keep America from sliding into an abyss fuelled her throughout her career. Pelosi never second-guessed herself or those around her, always wanting to make sure she had what was needed to keep America as great as possible. Page’s well-documented chapters and thorough research proves useful as the biography gains momentum. It is clear that the numerous interviews used to stitch things together helped Page offer a full view of the Speaker of the House of Representatives and her numerous passions. I could not have asked for a better biography about yet another strong woman in political arenas. I can only hope that others will agree a they delve into this piece.
Kudos, Madam Page, for a great look at one of America’s most powerful female politicians of all time.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
May 1, 2021
I found this to be an incredibly informative and fascinating biography, I found it especially interesting as I had recently finished President Obama's first memoir of his time as president. It was interesting to hear different perspectives of that time through the interviews that Susan Page did for this book.
I noticed people giving one star reviews before the book was even published. My guess is they assumed this was an autobiography, and were reacting in accordance to their political views. This is a biography by a journalist, and includes critical povs as well. My only criticism is that some information was repeated a lot, and at times the order of information seemed a little scattered. Still, it was a five-star enjoyable read about one of the most powerful political figures of our time.
I noticed people giving one star reviews before the book was even published. My guess is they assumed this was an autobiography, and were reacting in accordance to their political views. This is a biography by a journalist, and includes critical povs as well. My only criticism is that some information was repeated a lot, and at times the order of information seemed a little scattered. Still, it was a five-star enjoyable read about one of the most powerful political figures of our time.
Read
November 3, 2023It's for something I'm writing shut up
August 11, 2021
The first third of this book details Nancy D’Alesandro’s roots, down to describing the villages where her mother’s and father’s families originated. When she is finally born, we see what it was like to grow up in an extremely political home, and how that shaped her. Then she’s a young mother running her family with military precision and dabbling in community politics, but still not looking to forge a career for herself. This is instructive. She wasn’t a political animal from the start, although she certainly had the training.
The bulk of the narrative focuses on Pelosi’s time in Congress, and here we see how brilliant and determined she is. Each of her significant political challenges, victories, and losses is examined in minute detail, from which emerges a portrait of a gifted political strategist who nevertheless rules with a heavy partisan hand. The anecdotes and accounts from her contemporaries are interesting.
What I took away from her story was just what a badass the woman is. She's inspiring. From this account, no matter what stage she’s at in her life, she rules it. Nothing phases her. And this is also a detriment to the book. Surely Nancy Pelosi experiences more emotional ups and downs, rides the waves of life’s drama, more than the modicum of human emotion allowed in this account. But on the other hand, given Pelosi's intimidating persona, maybe Susan Page was afraid to ask. Otherwise, this is a solid account of a brilliant politician and groundbreaking congressional leader.
The bulk of the narrative focuses on Pelosi’s time in Congress, and here we see how brilliant and determined she is. Each of her significant political challenges, victories, and losses is examined in minute detail, from which emerges a portrait of a gifted political strategist who nevertheless rules with a heavy partisan hand. The anecdotes and accounts from her contemporaries are interesting.
What I took away from her story was just what a badass the woman is. She's inspiring. From this account, no matter what stage she’s at in her life, she rules it. Nothing phases her. And this is also a detriment to the book. Surely Nancy Pelosi experiences more emotional ups and downs, rides the waves of life’s drama, more than the modicum of human emotion allowed in this account. But on the other hand, given Pelosi's intimidating persona, maybe Susan Page was afraid to ask. Otherwise, this is a solid account of a brilliant politician and groundbreaking congressional leader.
August 31, 2023
I so enjoyed this one!!! To truly appreciate Nancy Pelosi's greatness, you must first understand her upbringing & her parents. She was already a badass in my book but after this one book, she just solidified that status in my book!!! The only daughter of Thomas & Nancy D'Alesandro, Nancy has almost always been around politics & public service. Her father was a congressman from Maryland & later the mayor of Baltimore. Public service was just in her blood!!! Pelosi would go on to become the highest ranking woman in US Government & in succession to the presidency before Kamala Harris was elected Vice President in 2020.
Susan Page does an excellent job covering Pelosi's life in this book.
Susan Page does an excellent job covering Pelosi's life in this book.
May 26, 2021
Considering the title promises lessons of power, I was expecting a more insightful portrait of Nancy Pelosi, a woman thought to be the most influential female in Congress. What the book is, though, is a recounting of the series of power plays by Pelosi, from the her beginnings of journey into politics, until the most recent crises that have faced our country. Anyone up to date on current events will find the book mostly a rehash.
Still, there is much to admire about Pelosi, a woman who learned politics from her dad, a multi term mayor of Baltimore (the early part of the book is this history and the writing is pretty terrible - Page repeats over and over again the same events, some of it word for word - where are the editors?). What I can't stop thinking about, and forgive me if it appears to be irrelevant - but the woman had five babies in six years!!! Talk about strength! Even Pelosi brags about this to this day when people ask her her secret for perseverance. She is a lady who deserves much admiration. I wish Page had been able to give us just a bit more about what makes the lady tick.
Still, there is much to admire about Pelosi, a woman who learned politics from her dad, a multi term mayor of Baltimore (the early part of the book is this history and the writing is pretty terrible - Page repeats over and over again the same events, some of it word for word - where are the editors?). What I can't stop thinking about, and forgive me if it appears to be irrelevant - but the woman had five babies in six years!!! Talk about strength! Even Pelosi brags about this to this day when people ask her her secret for perseverance. She is a lady who deserves much admiration. I wish Page had been able to give us just a bit more about what makes the lady tick.
August 5, 2021
I really liked Susan Page's biography about Barbara Bush, and I liked this one about Nancy Pelosi as well. I'd rate it 4.5 stars. Both books are about strong women from political dynasties, but while Bush fell into the role of a supportive political spouse, Pelosi embarked on her own political career.
I like Page's writing, and her thoroughness. I learned so much about Pelosi's upbringing as a young Catholic in Baltimore, the daughter of the mayor.
Pelosi always envisioned herself as taking on a role much like her own mother did as the primary caregiver for her children, and she was that for many years. She had 5 children within the span of 5 years! It wasn't until her 40s that she really became invested in her own political career instead of supporting others for office.
You get glimpses of the real Nancy Pelosi here and there. One of the things that stood out to me was that she wouldn't rent a house in San Francisco when she found out the owners were Republicans and were going to work for the Nixon administration. Say what? Phew. Those are some intense political feelings. However, you quickly get to understand that Pelosi not only understands policy but also process which is what makes her such a formidable political opponent. She's tough, and not afraid to hold her ground on things she really believes in. Her opposition to the Iraq war from the very beginning really stands out to me. She knew the government didn't have the intelligence to back up their claims and she was not afraid to be a vocal opponent of that war. It turns out that she was right, very right, on that one.
Nancy Pelosi is an intensely private person and I think that shows in her book. You don't get very many glimpses into the ups and downs of her personal and political life. I wished for more of that. I think Susan Page did the best with the information she had to work with and clearly Pelosi didn't want to open up any more than she had to.
I think it's an interesting read about our country's first woman Speaker in the House and would recommend it regardless of your political leanings. Love her or hate her she knows how the system works and how to get things done.
I like Page's writing, and her thoroughness. I learned so much about Pelosi's upbringing as a young Catholic in Baltimore, the daughter of the mayor.
Pelosi always envisioned herself as taking on a role much like her own mother did as the primary caregiver for her children, and she was that for many years. She had 5 children within the span of 5 years! It wasn't until her 40s that she really became invested in her own political career instead of supporting others for office.
You get glimpses of the real Nancy Pelosi here and there. One of the things that stood out to me was that she wouldn't rent a house in San Francisco when she found out the owners were Republicans and were going to work for the Nixon administration. Say what? Phew. Those are some intense political feelings. However, you quickly get to understand that Pelosi not only understands policy but also process which is what makes her such a formidable political opponent. She's tough, and not afraid to hold her ground on things she really believes in. Her opposition to the Iraq war from the very beginning really stands out to me. She knew the government didn't have the intelligence to back up their claims and she was not afraid to be a vocal opponent of that war. It turns out that she was right, very right, on that one.
Nancy Pelosi is an intensely private person and I think that shows in her book. You don't get very many glimpses into the ups and downs of her personal and political life. I wished for more of that. I think Susan Page did the best with the information she had to work with and clearly Pelosi didn't want to open up any more than she had to.
I think it's an interesting read about our country's first woman Speaker in the House and would recommend it regardless of your political leanings. Love her or hate her she knows how the system works and how to get things done.
May 3, 2021
I've been wanting to read a comprehensive, well-written biography about Nancy Pelosi for quite some time now, happily finding this to be a joy to read, even unputdownable at times. Biographies are a wonderful introduction to American political history and it's key players. Reading about recent history one has lived through is more entertaining than it might seem.
The only minor criticism I have is the author's tendency to repeat a point made as recently as the previous chapter. As a journalist, the author may just have been trying to make sure the reader could pick up anywhere in the book and not be confused by missing details.
4.5
"Don't agonize; organize." --Nancy Pelosi
The only minor criticism I have is the author's tendency to repeat a point made as recently as the previous chapter. As a journalist, the author may just have been trying to make sure the reader could pick up anywhere in the book and not be confused by missing details.
4.5
"Don't agonize; organize." --Nancy Pelosi
May 16, 2021
Nancy Pelosi is a fascinating woman but I don’t think that Page’s writing emphasizes that. Page tends to circle back and reiterate points that she already made-and she does it frequently. It put me off.
August 9, 2021
This was a very well written biography. You gain a heightened appreciation for the grit and temerity of Nancy Pelosi and a window into the inner workings of Congress all told through Susan Paige’s excellent writing. Definitely a book worth your time.
September 24, 2024
I highly recommend this book. This biography reinforced what I already suspected… Nancy Pelosi is a rock star! Her political acumen is responsible for many achievements, the best of which was the passage of the Affordable Care Act.
And I think the author did an incredible job of providing details without making the history boring. I haven’t yet read Pelosi’s autobiography, but I’m not sure it will reveal anything more than what this biography provides.
The contrast between Nancy Pelosi and the current speaker, Mike Johnson, is head spinning and highlights her strengths even more. I love her mantra, “Our diversity is our strength; our unity is our power.”
And let us not forget this accomplishment by the Democrats: A $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill had been quickly enacted by Democrats, with no Republican support.
And I think the author did an incredible job of providing details without making the history boring. I haven’t yet read Pelosi’s autobiography, but I’m not sure it will reveal anything more than what this biography provides.
The contrast between Nancy Pelosi and the current speaker, Mike Johnson, is head spinning and highlights her strengths even more. I love her mantra, “Our diversity is our strength; our unity is our power.”
And let us not forget this accomplishment by the Democrats: A $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill had been quickly enacted by Democrats, with no Republican support.
November 17, 2022
I would give this book a five based on the subject matter. I love Nancy Pelosi, even more than I did when I began the book. What a bad ass! But a bad ass with a true, Catholic, Democratic core of integrity. But I have to give it a four because it was not very well organized. It was repetitive. It seemed like by the end the author was tired of this topic, and just treated more recent events in a very cursory fashion so as to finish.
July 10, 2021
Madam Speaker: Nancy Pelosi and the Lessons of Power is an excellent biography of current House Speaker, Nancy D'Alesandro Pelosi by USA Bureau chief for USA Today, Susan Page. I've admired Speaker Pelosi since I've watched her interactions with the previous President. She's a strong, intelligent woman who kept America from being destroyed during an extremely trying time. (My opinion only, of course).
But Nancy is so much more than that; a caring, loving mother from a political family who didn't run for office until her 40's. But she was involved in politics from her early days, helping her father run for Mayor of Baltimore and for office and helping her mother organize her father's campaigns. She learned valuable lessons from their campaigning and leadership that stood her well in her future political career. She was Speaker during some of the most consequential moments of the past 15 years; one of the few Reps who spoke out against the war in Iraq, who was a key to helping President Bush navigate the financial crisis and also pushed through the ACA in support of President Obama.
What I think I liked most about Nancy is that she had standards, wasn't in power just to be in power but to enact legislation to help Americans, even at the risk of losing that power. The passing of the ACA gave medical coverage to millions of Americans but also put the Dems out of power for six years. Her battles against Trump's transgressions helped the Dems to overwhelmingly regain the House. Nancy may have been a polarizing individual but there is no denying that she worked for the betterment of America, the defence of those in need.
I liked one of the descriptions of Nancy especially; 'an iron fist in a gucci glove.' This is how Nancy described herself in the book, 'I consider myself a weaver. I'm at that loom valuing every single thread for what it brings, he or she, brings to the tapestry and the beautiful diversity of it and the strength of it" She tells her members of the Democratic party, "Our diversity is our strength; our unity is our power."
A fascinating woman who will go down in history as one of the most powerful, consequential Speakers in US history. An excellent biography, well-written and eminently readable. (4.5 stars)
But Nancy is so much more than that; a caring, loving mother from a political family who didn't run for office until her 40's. But she was involved in politics from her early days, helping her father run for Mayor of Baltimore and for office and helping her mother organize her father's campaigns. She learned valuable lessons from their campaigning and leadership that stood her well in her future political career. She was Speaker during some of the most consequential moments of the past 15 years; one of the few Reps who spoke out against the war in Iraq, who was a key to helping President Bush navigate the financial crisis and also pushed through the ACA in support of President Obama.
What I think I liked most about Nancy is that she had standards, wasn't in power just to be in power but to enact legislation to help Americans, even at the risk of losing that power. The passing of the ACA gave medical coverage to millions of Americans but also put the Dems out of power for six years. Her battles against Trump's transgressions helped the Dems to overwhelmingly regain the House. Nancy may have been a polarizing individual but there is no denying that she worked for the betterment of America, the defence of those in need.
I liked one of the descriptions of Nancy especially; 'an iron fist in a gucci glove.' This is how Nancy described herself in the book, 'I consider myself a weaver. I'm at that loom valuing every single thread for what it brings, he or she, brings to the tapestry and the beautiful diversity of it and the strength of it" She tells her members of the Democratic party, "Our diversity is our strength; our unity is our power."
A fascinating woman who will go down in history as one of the most powerful, consequential Speakers in US history. An excellent biography, well-written and eminently readable. (4.5 stars)
August 30, 2021
This is a great book if your curious about Nancy Pelosi. I find her standing up to. Txxxp very courageous. Anybody who could stand up to that evil has my vote.
November 28, 2021
This is a well-written biography that covers Nancy Pelosi’s entrance into her immigrant, Italian, hyper-Democratic, political family as the only daughter after 5 sons. It goes on to explain her own entrance into politics and the unparalleled knowledge, skills, and abilities she has displayed as the first woman Speaker of the US House of Representatives. I especially appreciate the “inside baseball” micro details of her dedication to the Affordable Care Act and to the two impeachments of the worst President of the US. A must-read for political scientists, political junkies, and those who want to help more women get elected to public office.
December 23, 2022
I know biographies can have biases in them, but I truly believe that we’d be living in a different nation if it weren’t for Nancy Pelosi. What an incredible read about a trailblazing woman in American politics!
August 8, 2022
الكتاب يتناول السيرة الذاتية لنانسي ديلساندرو بيلوسي رئيسة مجلس النواب الامريكي الحالية، وأغلب ما احتواه الكتاب يتعلق بعائلة بيلوسي ذات الأصول الايطاليه وبدايات عملها السياسي ومن ثم تجربتها كعضو في مجلس النواب ومن ثم نائبًا للرئيس ثم رئيسة المجلس وتعاملها مع الرئيس السابق دونالد ترامب ومحاولة عزله.
هناك تركيز كبير في الكتاب على الشؤون الداخلية ولم يتطرق إلى القضايا الخارجية وعلاقات الولايات المتحدة الاميركية مع دول العالم، سوى بشكل طفيف عن معارضة بيلوسي للحرب الاميركية على العراق وتأييدها ��لاتفاق النووي مع إيران.
هناك تركيز كبير في الكتاب على الشؤون الداخلية ولم يتطرق إلى القضايا الخارجية وعلاقات الولايات المتحدة الاميركية مع دول العالم، سوى بشكل طفيف عن معارضة بيلوسي للحرب الاميركية على العراق وتأييدها ��لاتفاق النووي مع إيران.
October 5, 2023
This book traces the rise of Nancy Dellasandro Pelosi from being the only daughter of a big-time Baltimore political family to being second-in-line to the United States Presidency. A lot of interesting background here--not so much on her personal life (thankfully for this reader)--but on her political skills as an organizer in San Francisco politics in the 1970s up to her successful campaign for Congress in 1987.
Page acknowledges that Pelosi is not a great speaker, but her true wizardry lies in holding together a divergent group--Democrats are nothing if not divergent--and getting lawmaking done. She comes across to me as a no-nonsense power broker, what the job needs--flawed as we all are, but also truly savvy and right much more often than not.
Her two times as Speaker of the House include the financial meltdown of 2008, the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2009-10 (usually called "Obamacare" but by some other insiders as "Pelosi Care"), and the legislative battles with the MAGA renegades under Donald Trump, and winning their grudging respect. And respect she well deserves to all who want to see Constitutional government work.
Page acknowledges that Pelosi is not a great speaker, but her true wizardry lies in holding together a divergent group--Democrats are nothing if not divergent--and getting lawmaking done. She comes across to me as a no-nonsense power broker, what the job needs--flawed as we all are, but also truly savvy and right much more often than not.
Her two times as Speaker of the House include the financial meltdown of 2008, the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2009-10 (usually called "Obamacare" but by some other insiders as "Pelosi Care"), and the legislative battles with the MAGA renegades under Donald Trump, and winning their grudging respect. And respect she well deserves to all who want to see Constitutional government work.
August 11, 2021
Susan Page's biography was insightful. At times, she repeated background information throughout the book in ways that seemed unnecessary, but I can see where the callbacks can be useful for readers who interact with only portions/chapters when researching Pelosi.
More than anything, I appreciated the epilogue and Page's reflections on the character she profiles in our first woman Speaker of the House. It's hard not to come away inspired and appreciative of Pelosi's service to our country. At her heart, she is family and results oriented. It's amazing to me how clear her career goals have been to help children and get results. I also like how this portrait of her emphasizes the strength of women as leaders and how motherhood is perhaps the best training for a career of great impact in politics.
More people need to understand her early efforts to lead on HIV/AIDS and her unwavering values throughout her career. It's heartening to see. And while she may not be the most gifted public speaker/presence in broadcast media, I appreciate her insistent focus on substance and results rather than the mere puffery of media attention.
More than anything, I appreciated the epilogue and Page's reflections on the character she profiles in our first woman Speaker of the House. It's hard not to come away inspired and appreciative of Pelosi's service to our country. At her heart, she is family and results oriented. It's amazing to me how clear her career goals have been to help children and get results. I also like how this portrait of her emphasizes the strength of women as leaders and how motherhood is perhaps the best training for a career of great impact in politics.
More people need to understand her early efforts to lead on HIV/AIDS and her unwavering values throughout her career. It's heartening to see. And while she may not be the most gifted public speaker/presence in broadcast media, I appreciate her insistent focus on substance and results rather than the mere puffery of media attention.
July 24, 2021
I have admired Nancy Pelosi for quite awhile. This book opened my eyes just exactly why she is such an admirable and inspirational person. Would highly recommend.
May 8, 2021
An incredibly interesting look at someone many think they know. Page does a great job in getting at the character of the woman and she has talked to EVERYONE in Washington who has been anyone over the last 30 years (who is still alive).
Although her upbringing in a Baltimore political family was very interesting (and something I didn’t know anything about), the real high point was the later chapters where Page describes her handling of three presidents. I was particularly impressed with her blunt honesty toward first Bush (jr) and then trump. Her uncle usher assessment of him, and the candor with which she told him what she thought of him, had me cheering.
Although her upbringing in a Baltimore political family was very interesting (and something I didn’t know anything about), the real high point was the later chapters where Page describes her handling of three presidents. I was particularly impressed with her blunt honesty toward first Bush (jr) and then trump. Her uncle usher assessment of him, and the candor with which she told him what she thought of him, had me cheering.
July 14, 2021
Check out my written review on my blog (with pictures!). Video review pending.
Thanks to publisher for providing me with a free copy for a fair and honest review.
*Pre-review thoughts*
My interest in Madam Speaker and Susan Page
Susan Page is an American journalist and biographer and the Washington Bureau Chief for USA Today. Prior to Madam Speaker, Page published another biography titled, the Matriarch, a biography on Barbara Bush. I haven’t read this biography, but it is on my to-be-read shelf. I have a great admiration for Nancy Pelosi, which I will explore in a bit, but the big reason I wanted to read Madam Speaker (and eventually the Matriarch) was because of my history with Susan Page. She isn’t a major celebrity journalist. That is, she doesn’t host any television segments or any podcasts. However, she is a semi-frequent guest on some public radio/broadcasting shows. In fact, it was on NPR’s the Diane Rehm Show (now the 1A) that I first heard her discuss various political topics. I think this was around 2011-2012, when I first started listen and it made me want to be the kind of person who listens to NPR. I figured, I could try. Next thing you know, I actually really liked it.) The Diane Rehm Show was the first show I really became attached to, but in 2016, Diane Rehm retired. I really hoped Page would be her replacement (as did many others), but it went to a new face. All in all, I really like where the 1A is now, but it left me wishing there was more amazing reporting by Page to enjoy. Which is why, when I learned that she had written a book (the Matriarch), I knew I had to read it.
Not long after buying the Matriarch, I realized Page was writing a new book. I did what I often do; I looked for an advanced reader copy. Sadly, it wasn’t on NetGalley, so I emailed the publisher. They didn’t answer. A few months later, I sent a snarky email (that I now wish was more cordial) about how the least they could do is say no. I quickly got a response apologizing, explaining there had been a change in employment that lead to my email being lost. The representative said “Sure!” to my request and asked for my address. I was shocked. I’ve never actually gotten a physical review copy before, so many many thanks to the publisher both for the opportunity and sheer thrill of getting to review the physical copy.
*Main review*
My thoughts on Speaker Nancy Pelosi
As I alluded to before, I have great respect for Speaker Nancy Pelosi. I say that because I know many (on the left and right) have great animosity toward her). I recognize she is the quintessential politician, but I always thought there was more to admire than to hate. Even her fiercest opponents acknowledge and respect that Speaker Pelosi. Many on the right characterize her as a far leftist, but in modern times, many on the left say she hasn’t gone far enough. The tendency in politics to draw a binary is very strong. A person is good or bad with no room for complexity. I am far from unbiased, but I try to acknowledge that fact. I could go all in about the ins and outs of what I think and why, but there is nothing I can say that isn’t already explained by Page, more coherently than I could ever could.
Page vs Speaker Pelosi
Let me be clear, I don’t think Page wrote this biography to bolster the Speaker’s image. Nevertheless, it’s hard to read this and not see the respect, and likely admiration, that Page has for the Speaker. Regardless of if you agree with Pelosi’s politics, her achievements as speaker are unmatched in recent history. There will be those who disagree, but it’s important to separate animosity for politics from animosity for Pelosi. Furthermore, there will be those that judge Pelosi in a way they never would a man doing the same things. When I speak of her achievements, it assumes a mutual respect, if not for Pelosi’s politics, then of the system of governance itself and what that system is capable of in it’s most idealistic state. I often think of Leslie Knope (in the shows later seasons) and her pure belief of what government can do even if it fails to be as pure as we would like. I recognize many do not hold that view, but you don’t have to agree to appreciate why or how one might find Speaker Pelosi admirable.
Overall, this book is about about Pelosi’s life as a whole, but it feels centered on her time in politics. Pelosi’s early life is merely a filter by which to better understand Pelosi as a politician. However, it’s no secret that Pelosi is very guarded. Page compares Speaker Pelosi with First Lady Barbara Bush when she asks to see their transcripts from high school. The first lady laughed at the triviality of it; the Speaker scoffed and refused. That guarded persona is present throughout the book. Page’s attempt to work around it is one of the best parts about the book. Early on in Pelosi’s life, it seems hard for Page to separate fact from narrative when the facts are so sparse, but as the Speaker gets further into her political life, Page is able to dig deeper into every situation beyond what Pelosi is saying in their interviews.
This likely makes the Speaker sound calculating or deceptive, but I would argue against that, nor does Page portray the Speaker that way. All Page does is present the Speaker as she is in a way that is intended to appreciate the subtleties of her character and motivations. She never tells you what to think, but she does her best to provide you with the information for you to make your assessment yourself. I’m leaving with an emboldened respect for the Speaker, but I’d be naïve to think my own bias doesn’t shape my view of the book. I wonder what others will think. Pelosi isn’t an angel, but no one is. The fact is, this book, in my view, conveys the fundamental motivations of the Speaker that feel true and pure.
Reflecting on Madam Speaker and Nancy Pelosi
One thing this book achieved was convincing me that Pelosi is far more liberal than I gave her credit for. Time and time again she has advocated for liberal causes, from the moment she took office. Even with the healthcare bill, I got a different perspective with this book. She very much wanted a much more liberal version of the bill. She was not happy with the bill that got through. However, a series of unfortunate political events stole that win from her. She was so close and a small shift in power made it impossible. In fact, everyone was ready to give up. Obama’s own administration wanted to get past the failure. The fact that we have anything is only because the Speaker chose to do what could be done. I knew she was responsible, but I never truly appreciated just how far she wanted to go or how close she got to it. Speaker Pelosi is the epitome of what I want in a leader. She is competent, effective, and realistic. She doesn’t waste tears on what might have been; she asks what can be. She is not a god. Although, what she’s able to achieve sometimes gives that impression.
Speaker Pelosi, like Secretary Clinton, is not very personable, nor is she a very open person. Human instinct is to distrust those kind of people. That doesn’t mean our instinct is always trustworthy. So much of the good that has happened in the last few decades is thanks to Speaker Pelosi. This book conveys that, and if you’re not liberal, it conveys that Pelosi is a formidable opponent that the left is lucky to have had.
To read or not to read
From an average reader’s perspective, I thought it was written well. I listened along with Page’s narration of the book, and it was just as well narrated. Page uses her journalistic voice, but she isn’t afraid to insert emotion or inflection where necessary. What’s more, the book was just as engrossing as it was fascinating. I sat there reading about everything Pelosi did during Drumpf’s presidency, eager to find out if she was successful, only to remind myself, you lived through this, and it failed. That really speaks to how well the book is crafted, for me to feel like I am reliving this but from the Speaker’s perspective. For those of you who don’t read a lot of political nonfiction, I think this will be an easy book to read and enjoy.
Big picture, I’d give this between 4.5-5 stars (final rating determined after sitting on it a bit). Anyone interested in Speaker Pelosi, either as a supporter or an avid opponent, should consider reading this. I can’t promise you’ll leave with as positive a view of her as I have, but you’ll leave with a better understanding of who Speaker Nancy Pelosi is.
Thanks to publisher for providing me with a free copy for a fair and honest review.
*Pre-review thoughts*
My interest in Madam Speaker and Susan Page
Susan Page is an American journalist and biographer and the Washington Bureau Chief for USA Today. Prior to Madam Speaker, Page published another biography titled, the Matriarch, a biography on Barbara Bush. I haven’t read this biography, but it is on my to-be-read shelf. I have a great admiration for Nancy Pelosi, which I will explore in a bit, but the big reason I wanted to read Madam Speaker (and eventually the Matriarch) was because of my history with Susan Page. She isn’t a major celebrity journalist. That is, she doesn’t host any television segments or any podcasts. However, she is a semi-frequent guest on some public radio/broadcasting shows. In fact, it was on NPR’s the Diane Rehm Show (now the 1A) that I first heard her discuss various political topics. I think this was around 2011-2012, when I first started listen and it made me want to be the kind of person who listens to NPR. I figured, I could try. Next thing you know, I actually really liked it.) The Diane Rehm Show was the first show I really became attached to, but in 2016, Diane Rehm retired. I really hoped Page would be her replacement (as did many others), but it went to a new face. All in all, I really like where the 1A is now, but it left me wishing there was more amazing reporting by Page to enjoy. Which is why, when I learned that she had written a book (the Matriarch), I knew I had to read it.
Not long after buying the Matriarch, I realized Page was writing a new book. I did what I often do; I looked for an advanced reader copy. Sadly, it wasn’t on NetGalley, so I emailed the publisher. They didn’t answer. A few months later, I sent a snarky email (that I now wish was more cordial) about how the least they could do is say no. I quickly got a response apologizing, explaining there had been a change in employment that lead to my email being lost. The representative said “Sure!” to my request and asked for my address. I was shocked. I’ve never actually gotten a physical review copy before, so many many thanks to the publisher both for the opportunity and sheer thrill of getting to review the physical copy.
*Main review*
My thoughts on Speaker Nancy Pelosi
As I alluded to before, I have great respect for Speaker Nancy Pelosi. I say that because I know many (on the left and right) have great animosity toward her). I recognize she is the quintessential politician, but I always thought there was more to admire than to hate. Even her fiercest opponents acknowledge and respect that Speaker Pelosi. Many on the right characterize her as a far leftist, but in modern times, many on the left say she hasn’t gone far enough. The tendency in politics to draw a binary is very strong. A person is good or bad with no room for complexity. I am far from unbiased, but I try to acknowledge that fact. I could go all in about the ins and outs of what I think and why, but there is nothing I can say that isn’t already explained by Page, more coherently than I could ever could.
Page vs Speaker Pelosi
Let me be clear, I don’t think Page wrote this biography to bolster the Speaker’s image. Nevertheless, it’s hard to read this and not see the respect, and likely admiration, that Page has for the Speaker. Regardless of if you agree with Pelosi’s politics, her achievements as speaker are unmatched in recent history. There will be those who disagree, but it’s important to separate animosity for politics from animosity for Pelosi. Furthermore, there will be those that judge Pelosi in a way they never would a man doing the same things. When I speak of her achievements, it assumes a mutual respect, if not for Pelosi’s politics, then of the system of governance itself and what that system is capable of in it’s most idealistic state. I often think of Leslie Knope (in the shows later seasons) and her pure belief of what government can do even if it fails to be as pure as we would like. I recognize many do not hold that view, but you don’t have to agree to appreciate why or how one might find Speaker Pelosi admirable.
Overall, this book is about about Pelosi’s life as a whole, but it feels centered on her time in politics. Pelosi’s early life is merely a filter by which to better understand Pelosi as a politician. However, it’s no secret that Pelosi is very guarded. Page compares Speaker Pelosi with First Lady Barbara Bush when she asks to see their transcripts from high school. The first lady laughed at the triviality of it; the Speaker scoffed and refused. That guarded persona is present throughout the book. Page’s attempt to work around it is one of the best parts about the book. Early on in Pelosi’s life, it seems hard for Page to separate fact from narrative when the facts are so sparse, but as the Speaker gets further into her political life, Page is able to dig deeper into every situation beyond what Pelosi is saying in their interviews.
This likely makes the Speaker sound calculating or deceptive, but I would argue against that, nor does Page portray the Speaker that way. All Page does is present the Speaker as she is in a way that is intended to appreciate the subtleties of her character and motivations. She never tells you what to think, but she does her best to provide you with the information for you to make your assessment yourself. I’m leaving with an emboldened respect for the Speaker, but I’d be naïve to think my own bias doesn’t shape my view of the book. I wonder what others will think. Pelosi isn’t an angel, but no one is. The fact is, this book, in my view, conveys the fundamental motivations of the Speaker that feel true and pure.
Reflecting on Madam Speaker and Nancy Pelosi
One thing this book achieved was convincing me that Pelosi is far more liberal than I gave her credit for. Time and time again she has advocated for liberal causes, from the moment she took office. Even with the healthcare bill, I got a different perspective with this book. She very much wanted a much more liberal version of the bill. She was not happy with the bill that got through. However, a series of unfortunate political events stole that win from her. She was so close and a small shift in power made it impossible. In fact, everyone was ready to give up. Obama’s own administration wanted to get past the failure. The fact that we have anything is only because the Speaker chose to do what could be done. I knew she was responsible, but I never truly appreciated just how far she wanted to go or how close she got to it. Speaker Pelosi is the epitome of what I want in a leader. She is competent, effective, and realistic. She doesn’t waste tears on what might have been; she asks what can be. She is not a god. Although, what she’s able to achieve sometimes gives that impression.
Speaker Pelosi, like Secretary Clinton, is not very personable, nor is she a very open person. Human instinct is to distrust those kind of people. That doesn’t mean our instinct is always trustworthy. So much of the good that has happened in the last few decades is thanks to Speaker Pelosi. This book conveys that, and if you’re not liberal, it conveys that Pelosi is a formidable opponent that the left is lucky to have had.
To read or not to read
From an average reader’s perspective, I thought it was written well. I listened along with Page’s narration of the book, and it was just as well narrated. Page uses her journalistic voice, but she isn’t afraid to insert emotion or inflection where necessary. What’s more, the book was just as engrossing as it was fascinating. I sat there reading about everything Pelosi did during Drumpf’s presidency, eager to find out if she was successful, only to remind myself, you lived through this, and it failed. That really speaks to how well the book is crafted, for me to feel like I am reliving this but from the Speaker’s perspective. For those of you who don’t read a lot of political nonfiction, I think this will be an easy book to read and enjoy.
Big picture, I’d give this between 4.5-5 stars (final rating determined after sitting on it a bit). Anyone interested in Speaker Pelosi, either as a supporter or an avid opponent, should consider reading this. I can’t promise you’ll leave with as positive a view of her as I have, but you’ll leave with a better understanding of who Speaker Nancy Pelosi is.
September 10, 2021
I didn't want it to end where it did.
I was shocked to find out about the allegations against her brother. It was interesting to hear about that in relation to Kavanaugh.
I really liked the inclusion about how she differs from the squad, but is inclusive and tries to share the lessons she learned with newer members of congress.
I was shocked to find out about the allegations against her brother. It was interesting to hear about that in relation to Kavanaugh.
I really liked the inclusion about how she differs from the squad, but is inclusive and tries to share the lessons she learned with newer members of congress.
June 5, 2021
I thought I knew a lot about Nancy. This book gave me much more details on the major events of our time. Nancy Pelosi is an amazing person. The book was well written and researched. I highly recommend it to any political junky like me.
August 4, 2021
A master legislative force in our lifetime in the class with LBJ. The most powerful woman in American history.
April 3, 2023
This is a fascinating and in-depth account of the life, career, and impact of the most consequential Speaker in modern times and arguably the most powerful woman in the history of American politics. The book is so well written and goes beyond informative to the consequences, significance, and legacy that showcases a woman of great intelligence, diligence, and integrity. So glad I read this one. It was made all the better by reading it with my daughter for our Book Club. Highly recommend this to one and all.
September 28, 2025
Very well written and researched. I hope people have the ability to look past politics and recognize the skill Speaker Pelosi had as a politician and pioneer for women in politics. I would put her in the category of RBG, a trailblazer for women.
I picked up this book after a recommendation from the Chuck ToddCast (to understand how our country got to its current state politically). I didn't know much about Pelosi before opening the book, and I'm happy I learned more about her life and many of her accomplishments.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
I picked up this book after a recommendation from the Chuck ToddCast (to understand how our country got to its current state politically). I didn't know much about Pelosi before opening the book, and I'm happy I learned more about her life and many of her accomplishments.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
April 9, 2022
I expected to enjoy reading Madam Speaker, but I was riveted. Susan Page's writing is lively, fair, and insightful. I come away with deep respect and gratitude for Nancy Pelosi's leadership, and a much better understanding of what happened behind the scenes to shape many of the pivotal events of the last few decades. This should be required reading for aspiring (and current) political leaders of any gender, race, or ethnic background, but especially for those coming from a background of privilege.
June 12, 2022
Madame Speaker tells the story of Nancy Pelosi starting with her Baltimore origins in the political D'Alesandro family to her rise to Speaker of the House. Her formative years are interesting to learn about as are the back stories of how she came to run for U.S. representative in her San Francisco. Equally compelling are the back stories of how she develops relationships, knows what motivates her fellow representatives, and how she has managed the House in recent years. The book is very readable and never boring even in the details of legislative maneuvering. Page inserts herself briefly as she offers observations throughout many interviews with her subject lending an air of objectivity and fairness in presenting Pelosi's numerous strengths as well as her weaknesses.
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