Ronnie and Jesse: A Political Odyssey

Lou Cannon's book examines the parallel political careers and complex relationship between Ronald Reagan and Jesse Unruh in California politics. The narrative traces their paths from the 1960s through the 1970s as they emerged as opposing forces in the state's political landscape. Reagan entered California politics as a conservative leader while Unruh built his reputation as a Democratic power broker in the state legislature. Their clashes and occasional cooperation shaped California policy during a period of social upheaval and change. Their story encompasses major events including campus protests, tax reform initiatives, and battles over state spending. The book draws from interviews, historical records, and Cannon's direct experience covering California politics as a journalist. The dual biography highlights themes of political pragmatism versus ideology, and illustrates the evolution of modern California governance. Their interactions demonstrate how personal relationships can impact public policy even between staunch political opponents.

There are not enough internet reviews to create a summary of this book. Instead, here is a summary of reviews of Lou Cannon's overall work: Readers consistently praise Cannon's thorough research and balanced reporting style in his Reagan biographies. Many reviews note his ability to present facts without obvious political bias. A reader on Amazon called "President Reagan: The Role of a Lifetime" the "most comprehensive and fair account" of Reagan's presidency. Readers appreciate: - Extensive use of primary sources and interviews - Clear writing that maintains reader interest - Detailed context about California politics - Objectivity in covering controversial topics Common criticisms: - Length and detail can be overwhelming - Some sections move slowly with bureaucratic details - Price point of hardcover editions Ratings across platforms: Amazon: "President Reagan" - 4.7/5 (127 reviews) "Governor Reagan" - 4.5/5 (89 reviews) Goodreads: "President Reagan" - 4.2/5 (512 ratings) "Official Negligence" - 4.1/5 (203 ratings) Multiple reviews mention Cannon's personal coverage of Reagan giving him unique insights, though some readers note this occasionally leads to overly detailed accounts of minor events.

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🗣️ Author Lou Cannon was considered the dean of Reagan reporters, having covered Ronald Reagan for over 35 years and written five books about him 📚 The book explores the unlikely friendship between Ronald Reagan and Jesse Unruh, who began as political rivals in California - Reagan as Republican governor and Unruh as Democratic Assembly Speaker 🏛️ Jesse Unruh, nicknamed "Big Daddy," was one of California's most powerful legislators and pioneered campaign finance reform in the state 🤝 Despite their opposing political ideologies, Reagan and Unruh found common ground on several issues and developed mutual respect that lasted throughout their careers 📆 The book covers a pivotal period in California politics during the 1960s and 1970s, when the state was experiencing significant social changes and becoming increasingly influential in national politics