The Cool Moose: Robert J. Healey, Jr, Beyond the Beard

by Lawrence W. Verria

The Cool Moose: Robert J. Healey, Jr.—Beyond the Beard chronicles Robert Healey’s life, focusing on his humorous, sometimes disruptive, and often misunderstood third party candidacies. Over a thirty-year span, with the possible exception of Mayor Vincent Cianci, no political figure garnered more consistent attention throughout Rhode Island (and beyond) than Robert J. Healey, Jr., widely known as “The Cool Moose.” From 1982 to 2016, Healey’s unconventional appearance, head-turning campaigns, and candid informative commentary drew inquiring looks, incited spontaneous laughter, and ultimately caused political and personal reflection. Though he lost almost every political contest he entered, he drew wide attention and conveyed a core message that resonated with parties across the political spectrum. Robert Healey made people think, and challenged them to act. Author Lawrence W. Verria traces Robert Healey’s ascendance to the forefront of Rhode Island politics. From his earliest days as an elementary school-yard loner to his years as a celebrated statewide individualist, the work revisits Healey’s shock value antics, deep reasoning, and life’s purpose. The manuscript offers an in-depth account of his entertaining campaigns, but ultimately focuses on his private struggles, professional record, and political reckoning. The product of extensive research, the work reveals the essence of this complex, controversial, and compelling political third-party candidate.

382 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is more than just a biography, it’s a time capsule of Robert J. Healey Jr.’s wit, boldness, and unshakable individuality. Lawrence W. Verria does an excellent job balancing the humor and spectacle of Healey’s campaigns with the deeper, more human struggles behind the public figure.

I found myself laughing at Healey’s antics one moment, then reflecting on the seriousness of his message the next. It’s rare to find a political story that’s this entertaining while still thought-provoking.

If you’re interested in politics, third-party movements, or simply the story of someone who refused to play by the rules, The Cool Moose is absolutely worth your time. It captures the spirit of a man who made people laugh, think, and, most importantly, pay attention.