The Middle Way

Reviews / Votes

Eisenhower, Bush Sr., and Obama - besides being perhaps the un-Trumpiest presidents ever - exemplified a way of thinking about American leadership in the world that seems ripe for the resurrecting, according to Derek Chollet in this fascinating new book. If nothing else, read it to remember that pragmatism, expertise, and careful decision-making were once welcomed in the Oval Office. * Susan Glasser, staff writer for The New Yorker and co-author of The Man Who Ran Washington: The Life and Times of James A. Baker III * An important, timely, elegant, and provocative work of diplomatic history from one of the finest thinkers and practitioners of his generation. If Americans are ever to find their way again in the world, this book is an essential starting point. * William J. Burns, President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State * As welcome and timely as it is rigorous and insightful, this complex and incisive history is the very definition of a usable past; we can all benefit from reading it. * Richard H. Immerman, Temple University * The values of moderation, prudence, and judgment that characterize the 'Middle Way' internationalism of Eisenhower, Bush Sr., and Obama have been given short shrift by analysts and historians with a weakness for bold ideology. In this cogent, clear-eyed, and important book, Chollet does more than uncover hidden links between these three like-minded presidents; he wins the argument that for all of their shortcomings, this common-sense approach is a superior way to conduct American foreign policy. * Jonathan Alter, author of His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, a Life * Few writers would have the temerity to examine the disparate personalities and careers of Eisenhower, Bush Sr., and Obama. Yet in this elegantly written book Chollet vividly highlights a common set of values, attitudes, and policies that served the country well. As Americans assess their presidential aspirants going forward, Chollet offers us an arresting prism to think about our past and envision our future. * Melvyn P. Leffler, University of Virginia * Because moderate policies are not flashy, they are often underrated. But as Chollet shows in his thoughtful, well-researched study, even if they are messy, they often do a better job of coping with a complex and changing world than do the starker alternatives. * Robert Jervis, Columbia University * A book for foreign-policy wonks to debate and cherish. * Kirkus *