Listen Up, Mr. President; Everything You Always Wanted Your President to Know and Do

xii, [2], 208, [2] pages. Index. Inscribed by Thomas on title page. Helen Amelia Thomas (August 4, 1920 - July 20, 2013) was an American reporter and author best known for her longtime membership in the White House press corps. She covered the White House during the administrations of ten U.S. presidents-from the start of the Kennedy administration to the second year of the Obama administration. Thomas worked for the United Press and its successor United Press International for 57 years, first as a correspondent, and later as White House bureau manager. She then was a columnist for Hearst Newspapers from 2000 to 2010, writing on national affairs and the White House. Thomas was the first female officer of the National Press Club, female member and president of the White House Correspondents' Association and female member of the Gridiron Club. She wrote six books; her last, with co-author Craig Crawford, was Listen Up, Mr. President. Thomas retired from Hearst Newspapers on June 7, 2010. Helen Thomas has covered the administrations of ten presidents. Thomas and Crawford hold nothing back as they use former occupants of the White House to provide a witty, history-rich lesson of what it takes to be a good president. Combining sharp observation and dozens of examples, the authors outline the qualities, attitudes, and choices that make for successful leaders. Calvin Coolidge, who hired the first professional speechwriter in the White House, illuminates the importance of choosing words wisely. John F. Kennedy, who could handle the press corps and their questions with aplomb, shows how to establish a rapport with the press. Ronald Reagan demonstrates how telling hard truths can earn forgiveness and even public trust. Thomas and Crawford not only highlight those lessons that future presidents should follow but also pinpoint what Americans should look for and expect in their president. Part history lesson, part presidential primer this book is smart, entertaining, and exceedingly edifying. First Scribner Hardcover edition stated. Fourth printing [stated]. …