An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s

Who is this book for?

• This book would likely appeal to readers with a strong interest in 1960s American history and politics.
• Baby boomers who lived through the era may particularly enjoy the nostalgic elements and insider perspective.
• Those who appreciate personal memoirs blended with historical analysis would find the format engaging.
• Fans of Doris Kearns Goodwin's previous works or readers interested in presidential history, the civil rights movement, and the behind-the-scenes workings of political campaigns would also be drawn to this book.
• Liberal-leaning readers sympathetic to the Kennedy and Johnson administrations may find the authors' perspective aligns with their own views.

Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?

• Readers looking for a strictly objective historical account may be frustrated by the personal nature of the narrative and the authors' clear biases.
• Those with conservative political leanings might take issue with the book's generally positive portrayal of liberal politicians and policies.
• Individuals seeking a concise overview of the 1960s may find the level of detail and length overwhelming.
• Readers who prefer a more traditional biographical or historical format might be put off by the blend of memoir and historical analysis.
• Those who are not already familiar with or interested in the political figures and events of the 1960s may struggle to engage with the material.

Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book

• Provides a personal, insider perspective on key events and figures of the 1960s
• Offers insights into the workings of presidential administrations and political campaigns
• Combines historical analysis with intimate memoir and biography
• Highlights important legislative achievements like civil rights laws and Great Society programs
• Gives a nuanced view of complex historical figures like JFK, LBJ, and RFK
• Includes compelling firsthand accounts of pivotal moments like the March on Washington
• Explores the idealism and desire for social change that characterized the 1960s
• Provides context for understanding current political and social issues
• Features original audio recordings of historical speeches and events
• Offers a touching portrait of the authors' long marriage and shared passion for history

Things people didn't like as much about this book

• Can be overly detailed and meandering at times
• Some readers found the focus on Dick Goodwin's role excessive or self-aggrandizing
• The authors' personal biases and relationships with historical figures may color their analysis
• The narrative can feel disjointed as it jumps between time periods and perspectives
• Some important historical figures like Hubert Humphrey may be underrepresented
• The book's length and level of detail may be overwhelming for casual readers
• The authors' liberal political leanings are evident throughout
• Some reviewers felt the portrayal of certain figures was overly laudatory
• The frequent mentions of Dick Goodwin's cigar smoking annoyed some readers
• The audiobook narration by the author was not appreciated by all listeners