First published 2018
John McCain faces his mortality while writing his last political testament. The Arizona senator acknowledges his uncertain future as cancer treatments may or may not extend his life beyond five years. He uses this final opportunity to address fellow Americans about his decades in the Senate and his 2008 presidential campaign against Barack Obama. McCain examines his efforts promoting democracy and human rights across Eastern Europe and the Middle East. He criticizes the nationalism and partisan division he sees damaging American politics. The memoir reveals his collaborations with Senate colleagues like Edward Kennedy and his conflicts with multiple presidents, including sharp disagreements with Donald Trump's policies and statements. McCain argues for democratic internationalism and bipartisan cooperation. He shares moments from his public service that brought him the greatest satisfaction. Despite confronting his own death, McCain presents an optimistic vision of America that extends beyond contemporary political turmoil.
Genres: american, political-science, biography-memoir, 21st-century
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: memoir, political-commentary
Setting: Eastern Europe, Middle East, Arizona
Period: 2008, Contemporary
416 pages · Hardcover · Simon & Schuster
Content warnings: terminal-illness