A Different Drummer: My Thirty Years with Ronald Reagan

by Michael K. Deaver, Nancy Reagan (Foreword)

The New York Times bestselling memoir of Ronald Reagan by his longtime aide and friend "These are memories of a friend and they span over the 35 years that I have known and loved Ronald and Nancy Reagan. Primarily anecdotal, there will be no footnotes, simply my best efforts to reconstruct these years and what they have meant to me."--Michael Deaver RONALD REAGAN AND ME will be comprised of six The Early Deaver and his first meeting with Reagan during his campaign for governor of California in 1966. His first impressions of Reagan's his management style, media savvy and incredible ability to communicate. The A look at the traits that make the perfectionist, competitor, unwavering discipline, and a deep sense of purpose and destiny. Sincerely, Ronald Never-before-published excerpts from letters Reagan wrote to people of various backgrounds. The On the stump during the presidential campaigns. Mr. Reagan in action in the Oval Office. How he changed after he was shot, and his battles with Congress and Communism. The Long With Nancy's cooperation, a look at the Reagans' struggle with Alzheimers and the impact it has had on their marriage and the family.

Genres: Biography, History, Nonfiction, Presidents, Politics, Memoir, Biography Memoir

228 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Duane Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most detailed accounts, through first hand stories, of any book I've had the pleasure of reading. The disease that gripped Reagan's mind was harsh and cruel and you felt that in the writing of Mr. Deaver. There was a sense of pride in Deaver's writing style, not in his own self, but in the fact that Reagan was such a decision maker and that Deaver was there to give account of those history making moments. This book helps the reader understand Reagan a little better, which is all I had hoped for. From the Hinkley shooting to Deaver's departure and subsequent treatment for addiction, it's an emotionally charged book and one I think any history reader would enjoy.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It didn't matter who you were or where you were in life, Ronald Reagan treated everybody the same. Whether you were a soldier's wife or the queen of England, you got the same treatment."

This collection of anecdotes, memories, and historical moments recounted by one of Reagan's aides made me love and respect our 40th president all the more, who has always had a special place in my heart even though I was a pretty young kid when he was in office. In addition, there were evident parallels between the Carter-Obama periods, and the Reagan-Trump eras that followed, revealed as I listened, even though this book was written while Bill Clinton was in office.

On March 30th, 1981, Reagan was shot in the chest by John Hinckley. That was the day before my fourth birthday, and my mom says that she was watching the news in her bedroom, crying, when I came into the room and told her, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." As far as I know, that may have been my first prophetic utterance, which is another reason why he holds a dear connection to me. When Reagan died in June 2004, I drove to DC on the day of his funeral and paid my respects with others. I remember watching his flag-draped casket, accompanied by his family, descend from the steps of the Capitol.

To hear from a friend and aide who knew Reagan so well, and who candidly pointed out his weaknesses as well as his strengths, that Reagan was a man of deep integrity, "incapable of lying," Deaver attests, was the highest thing he could have said of the man. That Reagan was compassionate, humorous, determined, a patriot, kind, forgiving and deeply devoted to and in love with his wife Nancy was unwavering in the 35 years Deaver knew him.

What I did not know was the assassination attempt by Hinckley produced a kind of heavenly transaction in the mind of Reagan: he felt he owed everything to God, and that his life must reflect it. While Deaver himself does not attest to being a deeply spiritual man, it is evident from what he observes that the fall of the Soviet Union and the Iron Curtain's stranglehold on the lives of millions was key to Reagan's divine appointment to the Oval Office.

Very interesting to me as well was the intuition Reagan had, a sense about things that made him reject what others would have jumped at (i.e. the Vice-Presidency offered to him by Ford) or resist counsel that sounded good but just wasn't the best way of doing things (i.e. getting rid of West-coast staffers and aides from the past in favor of Easterners to satisfy some image requirement). He didn't poll citizens for his decisions as did some of his successors. The thought of doing anything as base as not wearing a suit jacket in the Oval Office was unthinkable to the man.

Another interesting overview is how the press's playbook has not changed in 40 years. The consistent rhetoric and put-downs of the elite media to frame everything into a context that serves their own agenda, right down to the buzzwords they use, is still the same. This wasn't so surprising. What was interesting to me was that Reagan had some friends in the Democrat Party with whom he'd meet and genuinely enjoy a meal, including Speaker Tip O' Neill. That seems almost unheard of in today's political arena, where the Left views our president as a greater foe than terrorism.

I loved the stories that Deaver knew firsthand, especially Reagan's personal concern over individuals he read about and reached out to to help, including the welfare mom who figured the check he sent her would be more valuable as a souvenir, the soldier who asked Reagan to call his wife in Orangevale on their anniversary, and Reagan's gracious interaction with Mother Theresa (whose interaction over dinner seemed off-putting to me, but knowing how chronically depressed she was, understandable). I also enjoyed hearing of Governor Reagan's modest wardrobe, the fun he had fishing, and his obvious delight and belief in America and the democratic system.

On another note, I want to commend the author both on his writing of the book and also his narration. He has the perfect voice for an audio. The only piece of the book that threw me a bit was how it didn't go in chronological order, but jumped around continually from the early days of the gubernatorial run-off, to Deaver's resignation from his role as aide due to heavy alcoholism, to the presidential campaign, back to Sacramento, etc. It took me a while to get used to that style and at times was a little confused where on the timeline he was at.

Some quotes:

"With Reagan, it was cocktails at dusk, pistols at dawn."

[Reagan, recovering in the hospital from his gunshot at the hands of Hinckley] "I began to pray for Jim and Tim, but I realized if I'm going to do right, I have to pray for that boy who shot us, too."

"In closing, let me thank you, the American people, for allowing me to serve as your president. When the Lord calls me home, whenever that may be, I will leave with the greatest love for his country of ours, and eternal optimism for its future."

[Noel Burke · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good biography on President Ronald Reagan from a person who closely worked with him. What an incredible person! Really enjoyed learning about this president.

[Daniel Ray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a biography but some personal memories from a long time political adviser. One thing I took away from the book was that Deaver thought the only person Reagan really needed in his life was Nancy. That Reagan was only truly comfortable and relaxed when she was around the house. In addition, he may have had a photographic memory.

[Rebekkila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was in school during Reagan's presidency. I remember some people from his presidency but the author is not one of them. Because of this, I did not know of the scandal that surrounded him and my feelings changed about him by the end.

First let me talk about Reagan. I liked him, he is my favorite president during my lifetime. But I was too young to remember Nixon, Ford, and Carter before him and too jaded to work up a whole lot of love for the president's that came after.

I liked the personal anecdotes about Reagan, but they all were about what a great person he was, the book came off like a massive ass kiss. The book was not balanced. then I popped in the final cd and it all became clear. The author posed for a time magazine cover that ended up being a major tear down piece and caused some scandal for the Reagan's. This story was a massive apology to the family.

In the end, I did like it a lot in spite of the fact it did not seem very balanced.

[LK Hunsaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth a read for the politically inclined, A Different Drummer is more about the author than about the president, but to be fair, the subtitle does say as much. I found Deaver a little hard to deal with myself, but I enjoyed his insights and the little glimpses of Reagan as a man, not just as a president. I didn't find any big surprises, but some might. The book does skip around a bit and could have used better organization, and in the middle, I started to wonder whether I would bother to finish, but I'm glad I did; the second half was far more interesting than the first. In short, if you run across this book at a library or a book sale, consider at least reading the second half if you're interested in the subject more than politics as a whole.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful book and gave some insight to Ronald Reagan that I didn't know about. He is one of my favorite presidents so I may be biased but this book just reaffirmed what I already thought about him as a person. Well written and fun to listen to as the author does the narrating. (Yes, I listened to it on audible).

[Nancy Thormann · Rating 4 out of 5]

You're not going to get any dirt and gossip on Ronald Reagan in this book. Michael Deaver talks about Ronald Reagan in this book, but it's more about his personal journey over thirty years than about anything else. It gives you an interesting insight into the politics of the late 70s and early 80s.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Deaver’s memoir specifically about the 30 years he worked for Reagan. It provides a a unique perspective; sharing the ups and downs.
This is the second time I’ve read it and I enjoyed it just as much the second time.

[Joshua Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Personal memories of a close aide to Reagan. Warm and honest. Worthy read for Reagan fans and students of leadership.

[Jmlanier1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michael Deaver is best known as Deputy Chief of Staff for Ronald Reagan during his 1st term and part of his 2nd term as President of the United States. He worked by Ronald Reagan’s side for over 2 decades. This book is not about Deaver and it is not a biography of Ronald Reagan. This is a collection of personal memories/stories during Deaver’s time with Ron and Nancy during Reagan’s years as Governor of California and President of the United States.

I truly enjoyed these personal recollections including anecdotes about Tip O’Neill, Mother Theresa, the 1981 assassination attempt, Gerald Ford, George H. W. Bush, and Nancy Reagan. Deaver concluded by thanking Ron for giving him a front row seat on the ride of a lifetime.

[Lance Lumley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book at a library sale, and just now read it. This was an great read for fans of President Reagan, along with fans of politics in general. It is an easy to read book about Deaver's time and thoughts about the President. It is not in a timeline order, just a chapters based on some of his memories. The writing as well done, in which it took me only a few days to read, because I did not want to put it down.

[Fred Kohn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I expected that this would be another blow-by-blow book about Deaver's time with Reagan. In fact, it was more of a fireside reminiscence type of book, being more about Deaver's relationship with the man than a rehash of what can be found in the typical biographies. As such, it was an enjoyable read, but I wish that Deaver had also written a book of the more conventional type as well.

[Doug Adamson · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting memoir from someone in the Reagans' inner circle for many years. The book is an easy read but doesn't proceed in a linear fashion. Deaver's memories jump back and forth through the decades throughout the book.

[Joshua Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good read about the great Ronald Reagan. Only flaw is the way Deaver goes back in forth on the timelines. Also might be a little over the top in his praise of Reagan.

[Mike67 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great story but sad at the same time.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

We may never see as good a man at the helm again. A delightful read.

[Nick McCarthy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, easy read about Reagan from 10,000 ft view. Written by one of his closest staff members. Great insights into his character and shows you why he is such an admired president.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful little book! Loved so many of the stories of President Reagan, as well as political and historical insights. A book I’ll be recommending to everyone I know.

[Ice · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Ronald Reagan who emerges from Deaver's pages is far different from the popularly held view, fueled by the media, of the president as an amiable but limited man who napped, golfed, and left the business of running the government to his lieutenants. Far from it, Deaver insists: Reagan read widely, kept up with the issues, and "firmly believed that it was his job to set the priorities of his administrations and to make the big decisions."

Thoughtful and utterly courteous, if sometimes distant, Deaver's Reagan is a man of unbending conservative principle; careful to cross party lines to secure support for his policy and to judge his opponents by character, not doctrine; stalwart in his devotion to country; and certain, in Deaver's words, "that he was the right guy at the right time." This Reagan can do no wrong, and when controversy arises in Deaver's account it is almost always because someone else has flubbed the play. Unlike Alexander Haig, David Stockman, and other former administration officials who have written about their time in the Reagan White House, Deaver is quick to fall on the sword whenever he must. He takes responsibility, for instance, for the president's controversial decision to lay a wreath at a German cemetery that contained the graves of fallen SS soldiers, and for Reagan's difficulties in convincing voters of the wisdom of an expensive military buildup in the closing years of the cold war. About the Iran-Contra affair, which blackened Reagan's second term, Deaver has little to say, and about his own departure from the administration and subsequent investigation by federal prosecutors he is even more close-mouthed.

[Louis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful book. There was little policy discussion; instead, it was a look at the man himself given from the viewpoint of a man that had begun working for him during Reagan's run for governor of California. I remember seeing Reagan on TV when I was 8-years old and being inspired by him, and his ability to make us proud to be Americans after the Carter years and after years of standoffs with the Soviet Union. As I have grown older I have often wondered if the man I adored was just as good away from the cameras as he seemed in front of them. If this book is to be believed, the answer is a resounding YES. Here is a man who loved God, loved this country, and loved the American people, and had faith that they would do the right thing if they had the proper information. He was no Carter, who pursued peace at any cost, even if that meant letting evil flourish. He was no Clinton, devoid of personal integrity and governing by poll results. He was no Bush (take your pick), who thought that a benevolent government, with enough of your tax money, could cure all evils. He was a man of deep faith and integrity that knew inherently that government is more dangerous the larger it grows, and that more than anything we must rely on God. This book was a beautiful look into the heart and soul of the greatest president of the 20th Century, who takes his place in history beside Washington, Jefferson, Adams and Lincoln.

[Tom Pintong · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are looking for an indepth analysis of the Reagan years and their policies, this is not the book to read. The sub-title is very accurate in that it is just a snapshot into parts of the Reagan's private and political lives that Mr. Deaver shared with them. But it is still entertaining and informative nonetheless. It seemed that the main message Mr. Deaver was trying to get across was that President was an honest, decent man who was totally devoted to his country, and his wife Nancy. If that was his intention, Mr. Deaver succeeded. Some of the anecdotes are amusing, some are touching, all of them indicative of the type of man Ronald Reagan was. Fast and easy read for anyone who wants some light history to peruse.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read a book about Ronald Reagan, and picked thos one since the author worked with the PResident for 30 years all told. I have heard how many people respect the President, but as he was the President when I was young, I didnt know much about him. Reading this book gave me great insight into the man he was. He seems genuine. He wanted the office of the President so he could make a difference, and that he did. He was good at listening to people. Not just listening to words, but to the actual people. I think this is an important trait to have no matter what your career is. I made some recommittments after reading this book.

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book.
I have always been a great admirer of President Ronald Reagan. Therefore I may be bias, however this book gave me an insight into how great men are made, and the character that it takes to do the right thing and follow your instincs. Although this book is a retrospective and a compilation of memories by the author, it still gives you a view into the character that was Ronald Reagan. I highly recommend this book to anyone who willtake time to read about a great man and one of our 3 best presidents ofthe 20th century.
Thanks Mom for sending this book. I throughly enjoyed it.

[Martin Whatwouldthefoundersthink · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually listened to this one on tape, unabridged, read by the author. It was a very touching and poignantly personal depiction of Reagan. He really was quite a guy, as a human being. Deaver provides a lot of insight into the assassination attempt that nearly claimed his life.

I loved the anecdotes about Reagan throwing out the first pitch in a baseball game and being able to do it from the mound. I compare that mentally with the performance of the limp-wrist-ed narcissistic wimp now occupying the oval office.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite book to date on Reagan, told by a close aide. Deaver tells a lot about himself, but not in a way that he focuses on himself – rather in a way that demonstrates Reagan’s effect upon him. I have found it to be my favorite Reagan book because it contains intimacies that only Deaver would have known.

[Barbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book so far that I've read on Reagan, written by the man who was by his side for over 30 years. I was impressed with Michael Deaver's humility as a writer. The project was inspired by Michael's need to remember and grieve the loss of a dear friend. But more than that, he wanted to set the record straight on who the man really was. I was not disappointed.

[The Sombre Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazingly well-detailed book that takes us through the lives of Reagan's closes aides and the man himself. Through the lens of the writer, we are able to get a better picture of Reagan and snippets of the man's life. Where no other media has done justice for this beyond unique individual America has ever saw.

[Suzan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writing was so-so. I learned Reagan loved to read. He "devoured" books. His briefcase was always full of them. I loved this quote.. .his mother told him, "If you learn to love reading, you will never be alone."