RONALD REAGAN'S "LONG GOODBYE"

Tuesday, January 05, 2016

LAST ACT
THE FINAL YEARS AND
EMERGING LEGACY OF
RONALD REAGAN
By Craig Shirley

OVERVIEW: Cast in a grand and compelling narrative style, Last Act presents the definitive account of Ronald Reagan's life after public office. This untold story of Reagan's last years is an intimate account of the significant events in both his public and personal life—his slowly growing concern about his acuity, his "farewell address" at the 1992 Republican Convention, the onslaught of Alzheimer's, how he and Mrs. Reagan dealt with the diagnosis and progression of the disease, the planning of the state funeral, the outpouring from the nation, and the significance of the Reagan legacy.

AUTHOR: CRAIG SHIRLEY is the author of two critically praised bestselling books on President Reagan. Rendezvous with Destiny and Reagan's Revolution. His book December 1941 appeared multiple times on the New York Times bestseller list. Shirley is the chairman of Shirley & Banister Public Affairs, is a widely sought-after speaker and commentator, and has written extensively for the Washington Post, the Washington Examiner, the Washington Times, the LosAngeles Times, Town Hall, the Weekly Standard, Newsmax, Breitbart, National Review, and many other publications.

MY REVIEW: I agree with Pulitzer Prize-winning author, John Meacham. He said this is "A remarkable account of Ronald Reagan's 'long goodbye,' chronicling the final years of an American original who bent history in the service of freedom." I also agree with syndicated columnist Cal Thomas who said, "A deeply moving book that will bring tears to your eyes, strengthen your political resolve, and inspire you to build on Reagan's legacy." And also author Jane Hampton Cook, who said very succinctly "Important. Essential. Bravo."

"Last Act is a meticulously researched and enlightening account that widens our understanding of American history, the presidency, and one of the most influential men who occupied the office."

I admired Ronald Reagan long before reading this splendid book. It seems impossible that I could admire him more. But I do. I also admire Craig Shirley and love the way he writes. This is a good book about a good man written by a good man. After you read this book you will want the story to keep going. It's a true story. And a good one. I visited the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California a few years ago and now I want to go again. If you traveled with Ronald Reagan over the years you will want to go with him to the end. This books enables you to do that.

(I received this book from Book Sneeze A Division of Thomas Nelson Publishers iin exchange for a fair and honest review.)