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The Forerunner: A Story of Pain and Perseverance in America
From one of America's most transformative politicians and activists, a powerful and inspiring memoir that sheds light on a harrowing personal journey and reveals how urgently we need our political leadership to prioritize meeting the needs of our most marginalized communities.
"Piercing and gripping... Bush’s words are beautifully devastating." — The Cut
Having worked as a nurse, a pastor, and a community organizer in St. Louis, Missouri, Cori Bush hadn’t initially intended to run for political office. But when protests in Ferguson erupted in 2014, Bush found herself on the frontlines, providing medical care and protesting violence against Black lives. Encouraged by community leaders to run for office, and compelled by an urgency to prevent her children and others from becoming social media hashtags, Bush campaigned persistently while navigating myriad personal challenges—and ultimately rose to unseat a twenty-year incumbent to become the first Black woman to represent her state in Congress.
The Forerunner is the raw and moving account of a politician and activist whose life experiences, though underrepresented in the halls of Congress, reflect some of the same realities and struggles that many Americans face in their everyday lives. Courageously laying bare her experience as a minimum-wage worker, a survivor of domestic and sexual violence, and an unhoused parent, Congresswoman Bush embodies a new chapter in progressive politics that prioritizes the lives and stories of those most politically vulnerable at the core of its agenda. A testament to the lasting legacy of the Ferguson Uprising and an unflinching examination of how the American political system is so deeply intertwined with systemic injustice, The Forerunner is profoundly relatable and inspiring at its heart. At once a stirring and emotionally wrought personal account and a fierce call to action, this is political memoir the likes of which we’ve never seen before.
"Piercing and gripping... Bush’s words are beautifully devastating." — The Cut
Having worked as a nurse, a pastor, and a community organizer in St. Louis, Missouri, Cori Bush hadn’t initially intended to run for political office. But when protests in Ferguson erupted in 2014, Bush found herself on the frontlines, providing medical care and protesting violence against Black lives. Encouraged by community leaders to run for office, and compelled by an urgency to prevent her children and others from becoming social media hashtags, Bush campaigned persistently while navigating myriad personal challenges—and ultimately rose to unseat a twenty-year incumbent to become the first Black woman to represent her state in Congress.
The Forerunner is the raw and moving account of a politician and activist whose life experiences, though underrepresented in the halls of Congress, reflect some of the same realities and struggles that many Americans face in their everyday lives. Courageously laying bare her experience as a minimum-wage worker, a survivor of domestic and sexual violence, and an unhoused parent, Congresswoman Bush embodies a new chapter in progressive politics that prioritizes the lives and stories of those most politically vulnerable at the core of its agenda. A testament to the lasting legacy of the Ferguson Uprising and an unflinching examination of how the American political system is so deeply intertwined with systemic injustice, The Forerunner is profoundly relatable and inspiring at its heart. At once a stirring and emotionally wrought personal account and a fierce call to action, this is political memoir the likes of which we’ve never seen before.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published October 4, 2022
28 people are currently reading
559 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 8, 2022
You know, I've always admired Rep. Bush as a politician, and I especially appreciate that she's a "real person" representing us--by which I mean, not a multimillionaire completely out of touch with average people. And I was aware that she's overcome tremendous adversity in her past. But, I have to be honest and say that she did herself no favors with this memoir.
Yes, she is an undeniably resilient woman to have survived all that she has, but she has also exhibited highly questionable judgement throughout her life. I mean, I can empathize; I've made questionable life choices--but she's in a whole different league!
And then there's the whole religious section. Anyone who knows me knows that her devout Christian faith is not something that's going to speak to me. That said, it's a quality that I can admire in people. But then she gets into this whole faith-healing thing, and it sounds completely kooky!
So, unfortunately, Rep. Bush looked better when I knew less about her. Nonetheless, there's no denying that she's had a fascinating/horrifying life. Her's is a drama-filled story, and her memoir is a compelling read. There will surely be an equal and opposite number of people enthusiastic about the parts of it that I found off-putting.
Yes, she is an undeniably resilient woman to have survived all that she has, but she has also exhibited highly questionable judgement throughout her life. I mean, I can empathize; I've made questionable life choices--but she's in a whole different league!
And then there's the whole religious section. Anyone who knows me knows that her devout Christian faith is not something that's going to speak to me. That said, it's a quality that I can admire in people. But then she gets into this whole faith-healing thing, and it sounds completely kooky!
So, unfortunately, Rep. Bush looked better when I knew less about her. Nonetheless, there's no denying that she's had a fascinating/horrifying life. Her's is a drama-filled story, and her memoir is a compelling read. There will surely be an equal and opposite number of people enthusiastic about the parts of it that I found off-putting.
January 26, 2023
I guess you could describe my review of "The Forerunner" as mixed. Cori Bush tells an honest and detailed story of all the challenges she faced and overcame in launching her adult life and political career. She doesn’t gloss over her failures and struggles along the way. However, her consistent commitment to her principles and faith are amply evidenced throughout her journey.
My reservations about the book focus primarily on style. In a word, the work is not particularly well written. Whether due to a rush to print or an inadequate job of editing, the book suffers from a dearth of style and an excess of rudimentary simplicity. These superficial, but glaring, shortcomings take away some of the power of an inspiring story.
My reservations about the book focus primarily on style. In a word, the work is not particularly well written. Whether due to a rush to print or an inadequate job of editing, the book suffers from a dearth of style and an excess of rudimentary simplicity. These superficial, but glaring, shortcomings take away some of the power of an inspiring story.
December 7, 2022
This book affirmed my belief that Cori Bush is truly a breath of fresh air in politics. She’s been through it all—a victim of sexual assault, domestic abuse, poverty, eviction, and blatant and systemic racism. She spent over 400 days on the frontlines in Ferguson after the murder of Michael Brown Jr., organizing and providing support to protestors. I’m proud to have her has my congresswoman.
Minus one star for one section that didn’t resonate with me: the use of prayer to heal. And I when I say heal, I mean claims that prayer instantly healed the physical tumors on someone’s body.
Minus one star for one section that didn’t resonate with me: the use of prayer to heal. And I when I say heal, I mean claims that prayer instantly healed the physical tumors on someone’s body.
November 23, 2022
Wow. I’ve voted for her as many times as she’s been on my ballot but I had no idea what she went through to become who she is. I’m ride or die for her now and I absolutely trust her to take on Washington.
June 22, 2024
Her story was one I couldn’t turn away from.
December 20, 2024
3.75
a compelling autobiography, and a clear demonstration of why we need more members of Congress like Rep. Bush. unfortunately she lost to a combination of AIPAC money and progressive inadequacy, but I hope she finds new ways outside of Congress to push for change and runs again in 2026.
she set out to prove that anyone, driven and bold enough to imagine a better world and actually put work into realizing that vision, can do incredible things. she has so much talent and the life experiences necessary to enact change that will help those who need it most.
a compelling autobiography, and a clear demonstration of why we need more members of Congress like Rep. Bush. unfortunately she lost to a combination of AIPAC money and progressive inadequacy, but I hope she finds new ways outside of Congress to push for change and runs again in 2026.
she set out to prove that anyone, driven and bold enough to imagine a better world and actually put work into realizing that vision, can do incredible things. she has so much talent and the life experiences necessary to enact change that will help those who need it most.
October 27, 2022
I tried to make it through this book but stopped at about 70%. 50% of the book is recounting all of her abusive and violent romantic relationships. She then recounted being unhoused and getting into a nursing program. I finally thought we were getting to her activism and political activity and she took a turn to spirituality in the vein of smacking the evil out of people and I was out. It seemed there was not an arc or overarching structure to the book. I gave it two stars as she shares many intimate difficult stories but I should have stopped listening many chapters ago.
November 6, 2022
I didn’t know how much abuse and trauma this woman had to endure.
June 30, 2024
I’ve always liked Rep. Bush’s politics, but admittedly didn’t know a ton about her as a person. This memoir certainly illuminated much of her background, professional experience, and beliefs for me. While many parts of her story were heartbreaking, I also admired her ability to channel these experiences into avenues for change and advocacy. That said, it felt disjointed and random at times, and I feel like the writing and editing could have been improved by her team.
I’d recommend this to fans of memoirs and progressive politicians.
I’d recommend this to fans of memoirs and progressive politicians.
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February 11, 2025I’m reading more books this year that I’ll disagree with in some way to escape online echo chambers. I understand Cori better now and we really have more in common than we do different. Good to understand other perspectives even when you don’t 100% agree, especially in today’s media climate.
May 21, 2025
Via Audiobook. Wow. Cori Bush has really been through it all. This book made me angry for her and anyone in similar situations who has experienced this many hardships. But it’s inspiring to see her break boundaries and get elected. Black Women deserve more. Black Lives Matter
October 19, 2022
The title says it all.
December 21, 2023
Thanks Mom for this one <3
September 27, 2024
I’ve always admired Cori Bush, but this book brought me a newfound respect and appreciation for her. She is courageous, intelligent, empowering, and not to mention an amazing writer. What an extraordinary woman and book.
October 12, 2022
This memoir is, in one word, incredible. Cori Bush was already someone I admired and proudly voted for, but this book just…had me on the verge of tears the whole time. I started and finished in one sitting, I could not put it down.
October 31, 2022
Yikes! What more could one person experience and overcome?
September 6, 2023
Full Disclosure: I am a St Louis County citizen and Representative Bush is my congresswoman. I have voted for Representative Bush in the past, and will most likely, continue to do so in the future.
The Forerunner is a VERY open and honest memoir/biography from politician Cori Bush. The book should proably come with trigger warnings as their is some very straight discussion of the author's own dealings with rape, abortion, traumatizing medical care, being unhoused, and a slew of other painful and traumatic experiences. It has a positive message overall, but you're going to have to cross through a pretty dark and painful river to get the other side.
The book basically covers the author's life from childhood up to her winning a seat in the House of Representatives in 2020. In it she tells where she stand on many political issues / social justice of the day, though I would have appreciate a bit more discussion on those topics, personally. Mostly the book is of the author overcoming all the obstacles put in front of her - the book opens with the author being raped by a church leader she trusted - to reach elected office. The book hits its stride about 2/3rds of the way through as Bush gets involved in the Ferguson, MO protests following the police killing of Michael Brown Jr in 2014.
Overall, it's a very real and honest look at the difficulties many Americans, especially minority Americans, face on a daily basis and have the courage and strength to overcome.
The Forerunner is a VERY open and honest memoir/biography from politician Cori Bush. The book should proably come with trigger warnings as their is some very straight discussion of the author's own dealings with rape, abortion, traumatizing medical care, being unhoused, and a slew of other painful and traumatic experiences. It has a positive message overall, but you're going to have to cross through a pretty dark and painful river to get the other side.
The book basically covers the author's life from childhood up to her winning a seat in the House of Representatives in 2020. In it she tells where she stand on many political issues / social justice of the day, though I would have appreciate a bit more discussion on those topics, personally. Mostly the book is of the author overcoming all the obstacles put in front of her - the book opens with the author being raped by a church leader she trusted - to reach elected office. The book hits its stride about 2/3rds of the way through as Bush gets involved in the Ferguson, MO protests following the police killing of Michael Brown Jr in 2014.
Overall, it's a very real and honest look at the difficulties many Americans, especially minority Americans, face on a daily basis and have the courage and strength to overcome.
September 25, 2023
Tough life. I remember watching every night for months as protestors in Ferguson were harassed and brutalized by the police, thanks to those who livestreamed the protest. I would just watch, sobbing in front of my computer. My husband didn't understand why I kept putting myself through it. I honestly don't know either. Maybe blame autism? My outrage would then multiply when mainstream media would try and paint the protest as violent. Ugh.
Sidenote: Cori is the type of Christian that freaks me out. Believing that her powers got that kid to walk or instantly heal tumors is creepy AF.
Sidenote: Cori is the type of Christian that freaks me out. Believing that her powers got that kid to walk or instantly heal tumors is creepy AF.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2023
I respect Rep. Bush as a person and politician. There were a lot of great stories shared and this really helped give more context to her and her policies. The flow was a bit off for me. It was a little hard to keep track of what happened when as timelines jumped around a bit. But overall, a powerful memoir.
November 6, 2022
Basic story though Cori's story though is anything but basic. Very rough. Difficult but interesting read
March 4, 2023
I would give this a 4.5 out of 5.
I checked this book out of my local library because I have been a fan of Representative Bush ever since she came to the House of Representatives. Once I started reading this book I did not want to put it down. Bush’s writing style was captivating both in style and content. Her honesty and self-reflection included in these pages were at times heartbreaking to read but inspirational. The way she included statistics and facts about gun violence, maternal mortality, the health care system, race, gender, and so much more, highlighted by her personal stories stresses the importance of electing people with various experiences to hold office.
I really loved the way she detailed her journey with self-confidence throughout her life. There were several parts that were difficult to read, but because of her honesty, Bush highlighted what people struggle with every day and that no singular experience should be used to define a person.
I respect Bush's journey with her faith and was interested to learn that she is in fact an ordained Pastor. I appreciated how she detailed her experiences in the church and how she outlined her own journey. The way that she discussed her struggles within the church was refreshing as I often feel that the struggles that people may experience with religion are not spoken about enough.
I checked this book out of my local library because I have been a fan of Representative Bush ever since she came to the House of Representatives. Once I started reading this book I did not want to put it down. Bush’s writing style was captivating both in style and content. Her honesty and self-reflection included in these pages were at times heartbreaking to read but inspirational. The way she included statistics and facts about gun violence, maternal mortality, the health care system, race, gender, and so much more, highlighted by her personal stories stresses the importance of electing people with various experiences to hold office.
I really loved the way she detailed her journey with self-confidence throughout her life. There were several parts that were difficult to read, but because of her honesty, Bush highlighted what people struggle with every day and that no singular experience should be used to define a person.
I respect Bush's journey with her faith and was interested to learn that she is in fact an ordained Pastor. I appreciated how she detailed her experiences in the church and how she outlined her own journey. The way that she discussed her struggles within the church was refreshing as I often feel that the struggles that people may experience with religion are not spoken about enough.
February 5, 2023
First book checked out with my library card lmao. This is a strong piece of political memoir. Cori's writing style is direct and clear–not rife with political clichés and platitudes. Her story is one overflowing with trauma and she does not shy away from that in this book. Many people will find some of the stories hard to stomach. I admire Bush's courage in writing such a frank book that stands in utter contrast to anything else you might read on a shelf of political memoirs. At times you become baffled with Bush and her choices at points in her life, but she does such a sensitive job of walking you through not only her suffering but also her very human shortcomings and mistakes.
What emerges from this book is a portrait of an endlessly loving, deeply tenacious, motivated and optimistic woman. To hear her repeated line "your congresswoman loves you" was already powerful in the context of normal congressional politics, but this book beautiful illustrates just how seriously Bush means that line. She reminds me in many ways of Pope Francis.
I am glad she is my congressional representative and I hope this is only the beginning of a long career of public service.
What emerges from this book is a portrait of an endlessly loving, deeply tenacious, motivated and optimistic woman. To hear her repeated line "your congresswoman loves you" was already powerful in the context of normal congressional politics, but this book beautiful illustrates just how seriously Bush means that line. She reminds me in many ways of Pope Francis.
I am glad she is my congressional representative and I hope this is only the beginning of a long career of public service.
December 22, 2022
Congresswoman Bush is a remarkable person. And she details her journey unflinchingly.
A section that troubled me (to clarify—a lot of horrible things happened to her that were all troubling, but this is something she perpetuated) was her discussion of when she was engaging in street ministry and approaching people she found to appear physically disabled to pray over/for them and to heal them. I am hoping there is more nuance here and maybe she’s reflected, but like…approaching someone—who is out there living their life, minding their business—because of how they look and then praying that they will be changed???? But then she later talks about having the support of the disability justice community…that doesn’t add up to me…
Tw: graphic depictions of domestic violence, police brutality, racism, misogynoir, abortion, medical violence, sexual assault/sexual violence/rape, structural violence inflicted by government, hospitals/clinics, and church
A section that troubled me (to clarify—a lot of horrible things happened to her that were all troubling, but this is something she perpetuated) was her discussion of when she was engaging in street ministry and approaching people she found to appear physically disabled to pray over/for them and to heal them. I am hoping there is more nuance here and maybe she’s reflected, but like…approaching someone—who is out there living their life, minding their business—because of how they look and then praying that they will be changed???? But then she later talks about having the support of the disability justice community…that doesn’t add up to me…
Tw: graphic depictions of domestic violence, police brutality, racism, misogynoir, abortion, medical violence, sexual assault/sexual violence/rape, structural violence inflicted by government, hospitals/clinics, and church
October 31, 2022
I need more people to read and rec this memoir!
Personally I feel a kinship with Cori as a fellow St. Louis native but that doesn't skew my thoughts on this memoir, only enhances it.
Be warned that this is a heavy memoir that heavily recounts sexual assault, rape, police brutality and racism.
While I know many will think of this as a ploy to gain votes for the November 8th election but it should be seen as a way to get to know your politicians better. Cori talks about why she felt compelled to run for Congress after working as a nurse and a teacher. She shares her personal story related to abortion and why she's so passionate for freedom of choice. She calls out misogyny from the church and details her thoughts on those not willing to get their hands dirty in activism.
This is a radical read!
Personally I feel a kinship with Cori as a fellow St. Louis native but that doesn't skew my thoughts on this memoir, only enhances it.
Be warned that this is a heavy memoir that heavily recounts sexual assault, rape, police brutality and racism.
While I know many will think of this as a ploy to gain votes for the November 8th election but it should be seen as a way to get to know your politicians better. Cori talks about why she felt compelled to run for Congress after working as a nurse and a teacher. She shares her personal story related to abortion and why she's so passionate for freedom of choice. She calls out misogyny from the church and details her thoughts on those not willing to get their hands dirty in activism.
This is a radical read!
October 19, 2022
Wow what a memoir! I did not know much about Cori Bush's life story before reading this book, but am so glad she shared her stories of resilience and strength. I am so inspired. I find it interesting that I have also read Jason Kander's book this year as the two squared off for Missouri Senator in 2016. Both have had traumatic events, but Cori's, unfortunately, have had to do with both race and poverty while Jason's was due to his military service. While I enjoyed both memoirs, if I had to pick one I'd pick Cori's. It was tough to read at times what she went through, but what an incredibly strong woman. She definitely belongs in congress, if not the Executive or Judicial branch, if that is something she aspires. Great read.
April 24, 2023
Sometimes less is definitely more. After reading Bush’s book, I feel as though I would be better off to know much less about her questionable life choices for which she takes little responsibility, constantly painting herself as the victim. These choices comprise pretty much the entire first half of the book. I would also rather not know about her occasionally bizarre Christian beliefs (faith healing ?!?). And then there is that messiah complex: By simply touching a young child, she taught her to walk! I still respect and appreciate Bush’s voice on social justice and political issues…but I will now have a nagging feeling that as a person, she is also just a wee bit off.
December 8, 2022
Cori Bush presents her life story, starting with her childhood in the St. Louis area to her arrival as the first African American woman to represent Missouri in Congress. Along the way, she recounts her struggles in abusive relationships, challenges to complete her nursing education, and her turn toward activism when a police officer murdered Mike Brown in Ferguson, Missouri in 2014.
Rep. Bush provides a roadmap for those who see a problem within their community and yearn to create change, no matter what their circumstances.
Rep. Bush provides a roadmap for those who see a problem within their community and yearn to create change, no matter what their circumstances.
January 30, 2023
I picked this book from the shelves because I know of Congresswoman Bush and the good work she is doing. I had no idea I'd read such a visceral story of resistance and survival. Cori Bush is a nurse, a pastor, a heroine, and a miracle, given the adversity and abuse she's gone through. Trigger warning: this book was hard to read in several places, especially in descriptions of abuse and assault. This book might be triggering for those who have survived physical abuse and or sexual assault. God bless you reverend. Thank you for sharing your story. Five stars. #theforerunner #coribush
September 25, 2024
even bigger fan of Rep Cori Bush after reading her memoir however it felt like what she was writing for other people rather than herself. that said the cori bush in this memoir is still someone who deserves every bit of power especially on the hill. Still a great read and understand why sometimes she had to detach herself a little but I don’t feel like I know her after reading this. but privacy is important, so maybe that’s ok?
July 14, 2025
The sub-title of the book, " A story of Pain and Perseverance in America" is a great summary of this biography.
Cori Bush was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. Being a black woman, she encountered many challenges that she shares in her book. Rape, sexual abuse, poverty, discrimination, etc. But, she hangs on and keeps fighting for justice. Eventually becoming the first black woman elected to the House of Representatives from her district.
An empowering read.
Cori Bush was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. Being a black woman, she encountered many challenges that she shares in her book. Rape, sexual abuse, poverty, discrimination, etc. But, she hangs on and keeps fighting for justice. Eventually becoming the first black woman elected to the House of Representatives from her district.
An empowering read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews