Reviews

The Art of Tough: Fearlessly Facing Politics and Life by

sfstagewalker's review against another edition

3.0

I neither loved nor hated this memoir. I have a lot of respect for Boxer, but this book felt ... light. It's not that I wanted dirt, but this book just kind of rattled off a bunch of anecdotes in chronological order while occasionally throwing in a reference to the title. I'd have been much more interested in either more of a "room where it happened" approach (which she does come close to at times) or a thoughtful exploration of resilience and struggle in the face of opposition. It really feels like she brushes up against these, but ultimately feels more like a casual reflection on her career than anything else.

singerji's review against another edition

4.0

The Art of Tough is well written and informative. Boxer is refreshingly clear about the values that guided her many years in political office and how these values are rooted in her own upbringing. Particularly noteworthy is that the book provides a thoughtful and riveting behind the scenes review of what was happening in Washington during her years in office, especially during her many years as a U.S. Senator from California. Definitely would recommend!

laumaia's review against another edition

4.0

Rating: 4

So I really enjoyed this one, as I'm getting older I believe I'm turning into a biography/memoir lover, something I didn't like growing up. Or maybe I just read boring ones, I don't know.



Full disclose, I don't enjoy politics in general, I'm not an American so I don't follow fully their politics but this book is so well written that even a Portuguese girl not interested in this can fully follow and be interested in everything said. Furthermore you feel good because growing up I remember many of the key events mentioned. Probably Republicans want like this book very much but I truly enjoyed reading it and getting to know this ex-Senator.

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