Kissinger by Walter Isaacson

 Favorite Quote

“If I had to choose between justice and disorder on the one hand, and injustice and order on the other, I would always choose the latter.” — Henry Kissinger

The Book in One Sentence

Kissinger is a well-written account of Nobel Peace Prize winner Henry Kissinger’s public life and career, retelling his achievements from a balanced perspective while also offering a glimpse into his personal life.

Why should you read it?

If you want to be a leader, especially in politics, this book is for you. Kissinger is an inspiring individual, but he’s also a realist, knowing it takes compromise, communication, and balance to get things done on a global stage. Learning about his story and how he navigated highly sensitive situations will give you a better sense of how to balance your own goals with those of other people, and why the most important words are sometimes those you don’t say. A great read for anyone interested in history, politics, or, well, Henry Kissinger.

Key Takeaways

1. Most politicians are idealists, but Kissinger is a realist, and that helped him have a greater impact.
2. Being in a position of power will always force you to make uncomfortable decisions.
3. Kissinger received the Nobel Peace Prize for negotiating a ceasefire in the Vietnam War, but the decision was controversial.