If you’re looking for a new read for those history buffs at your branch I’ve got some exciting news to share. The Passage of Power, the next volume in Robert A. Caro‘s “The Years of Lyndon Johnson” biography, will be released from Knopf this May. It’s an in-depth look at LBJ’s presidency that is sure to delight readers with the inside scoop about our 36th president. The Passage of Power continues the story told in Master of the Senate (2002), Means of Ascent (1990), and The Path to Power (1982) – titles that were awarded with a National Book Award, a Pulitzer Prize, and two awards from the National Book Critics Circle. It will be a must read for those who can’t resist a good presidential biography.
“This is the work of a great biographer writing at the very height of his powers,” said Sonny Mehta, Chairman and Editor in Chief of Knopf. “When I read the manuscript, I knew we had to publish this new book as quickly as possible. It is a riveting look at a pivotal period in our nation’s history – told for the first time as only Caro is capable of doing. His research is peerless; his knowledge of history exceptional; and his gifts for telling a story unrivaled. This book will be hailed as one of his finest works.”
In The Passage of Power, Caro focuses on five crucial years in the life of Lyndon Johnson – from late 1958 when he began campaigning for the presidency, to early 1964, after he was thrust into office following the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Based on interviews with primary sources and on thousands of original documents, Caro describes the volatile relations between Johnson and John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert. He writes of the years of frustration and humiliation Johnson endured as vice president. He tells the story of the Kennedy assassination from the viewpoint of Lyndon Johnson. And he shows how this master of politics grasped the reins of power in a time of great crisis and immediately took command with unprecedented skill—and extraordinary results.
We look forward to hearing your thoughts on this amazing addition to LBJ biographies.