A Full Life

At ninety, Jimmy Carter reflects on his public and private life with a frankness that is disarming. He adds detail and emotion about his youth in rural Georgia that he described in his magnificent An Hour Before Daylight.

He writes about racism and the isolation of the Carters. He describes the brutality of the hazing regimen at Annapolis, and how he nearly lost his life twice serving on submarines, and his amazing interview with Admiral Rickover.

He describes the profound influence his mother had on him, and how he admired his father even though he didn’t emulate him. He admits that he decided to quit the Navy and later enter politics without consulting his wife, Rosalynn, and how appalled he is in retrospect.

I have one life and one chance to make it count for something… My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference.

A Full Life is a thought-provoking memoir that delves into the life and career of its author, Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States. In this introspective work, Carter shares his experiences, anecdotes, and reflections on various aspects of his personal and public life.

One of the book’s strengths is Carter’s ability to provide vivid descriptions of the key events that shaped his life, from his early childhood in rural Georgia to his political journey in the White House. His narrative paints a compelling picture of the challenges and triumphs he encountered along the way.

Carter’s writing style is straightforward and sincere, reflecting his modest and unpretentious demeanor. His honesty is refreshing as he discusses both his successes and failures, giving readers a genuine glimpse into the mind of a former president. Carter’s dedication to service and his passion for addressing pressing issues such as human rights and global peace shine through in his words.

While the memoir offers valuable insights, some readers may find the pacing uneven as Carter tends to spend more time discussing certain periods of his life compared to others. Additionally, a more in-depth exploration of some complex political situations could have provided a deeper understanding of the challenges faced during Carter’s presidency.

Nevertheless, A Full Life remains a compelling read for those interested in gaining a greater understanding of President Jimmy Carter’s life and values. Carter’s dedication to public service, his unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, and his remarkable resilience are sure to inspire readers from all walks of life.

Overall, A Full Life offers a sincere and reflective account of a prominent political figure who has dedicated his life to making a positive impact in the world. Carter’s memoir serves as a reminder that a life devoted to service can leave a lasting legacy.