Colin Powell: Imperfect Patriot Hardcover – Download: Adobe Reader, March 15, 2019

I purchased this as a gift for my grandson who is planning on joining the Military. He is almost done with the book and will give it to school library when he completes. He said it would be good for cadets and drill sergeants. Grammie says it’s a good book for all Americans to read especially Soldiers. “Soldier” is another good book about a great American, Colin Powell was a good man.

While Colin Powell has always been one of my heroes, it was refreshing to learn that he wasn't always "perfect" and that sometimes, even if rarely, he "second-guessed" himself (like most of us "ordinary" folks do) but still was able to "push through" to a desirable outcome. What was most enlightening was the insight into the machinations and in-fighting within the administration(s) as pertains to policy and diplomacy. He is still one of my heroes and I remember fondly meeting with him in his Pentagon office when he was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1993.

This is a great book that doesn't skirt the obvious flaws in Colin Powell's role in the Bush Administration. It is thoughtful and honest. I appreciate that a scholar took on trying to decipher what happened, and why a person with such wide popularity and respect opted to succomb at such a pivotal time

The book was new as indicated.

Insightful, informative, and worth reading!

Having worked for General Powell at the White House when he was National Security Advisor, under President Reagan, and a big fan of his I was looking forward to reading Dr Matthews book. I have read A couple books about Gen Powell, including his autobiography and thoroughly enjoyed them. Professor Matthews book didn’t just regurgitate the same information we already knew about the General, but went into many of his decisions, both good and questionable through his entire career. Although Dr Matthews calls into question some of Gen Powell’s decisions and actions throughout his career, this book also highlighted the great decisions and actions that have made Gen Powell the American hero that most people know and admire. It was extremely well researched and documented using Gen Powell’s personal papers, public documentation and a personal interview with Gen Powell. Although the book goes into in depth detail of these decisions and actions, it is extremely well written and easy to read and follow. Anyone interested in Gen Powell and/or military history should definitely read this book!

What an incredibly well researched and thoughtful book. It’s an honest look at a person that served our country so faithfully for several decades and you really appreciate the human behind the medals. I highly recommend this book.

An interesting read, but the author seems to have a poor opinion of his subject. Starting from the beginning, he uses words like follower, and assigns a subordinate role to General Powell. He doesn't give him enough credit for his many accomplishments, and honors. He barely acknowledged his drive and sacrifice, and has a "glass half empty" attitude.