JFK

The definitive biography of John F. Kennedy, JFK by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Fredrik Logevall, immerses readers in the enthralling journey of one of the most captivating figures in modern history. This monumental work, described as "the most compelling biography I have read in years” by Max Hastings, meticulously unfolds Kennedy's story starting from his birth in 1917 to his political ascension and beyond. Born into an ambitious Irish American family that would become one of Boston's wealthiest, Kennedy was no stranger to the world of high aspirations and political ambition. His meteoric rise culminated in his election as the youngest president of the United States, solidifying his place as a global icon.

By the time of his tragic assassination in 1963, Kennedy had established himself at the helm of the greatest power the world had ever seen. Beckoned by a gap in historical knowledge and the desire to tease out the 'real' John F. Kennedy, Harvard professor Fredrik Logevall embarked on a decade-long quest to scour through material previously unseen or unused by other biographers. The result is nothing short of a masterpiece that many reviews agree will serve as the definitive biography of JFK.

This first volume of a sweeping two-part biography spans the first thirty-nine years of Kennedy’s life, delving into the early relationships that shaped him, his heroic experiences during World War II, and his profoundly fascinating romance with Jackie Kennedy. With a novelistic sensibility and authoritative command, Logevall brings to life the pre-White House years of Kennedy’s extraordinary life, portraying his formative years with striking clarity.

The author places the reader in every pertinent room, chronicling the moments and relationships that paved the way for Kennedy's ascendency. This landmark work is more than just a biography; it is the clearest portrait available of a man whose life still resonates and inspires people around the globe. Logevall’s JFK captivates, informs, and sheds new light on one of history's most enduring figures, making it an essential read for anyone fascinated by the life and times of John F. Kennedy.