The Bush tragedy / Jacob Weisberg.

Includes bibliographical references (pages [245]-258) and index.

Introduction: Prince Hal in Houston -- Ch. 1. The Bushes and the Walkers -- Ch. 2. Father and Sons -- Ch. 3. The Gospel of George -- Ch. 4. The Shadow -- Ch. 5. The Foremost Hand -- Ch. 6. An Amiable Monster -- Ch. 7. Dead Precedents.

"This is the book that cracks the code of the Bush presidency. Unstintingly yet compassionately, and with no political ax to grind, Slate editor in chief Jacob Weisberg methodically and objectively examines the family and circle of advisers who played crucial parts in George W. Bush's historic downfall." "In this revealing and defining portrait, Weisberg uncovers the "black box" from the crash of the Bush presidency. Using in-depth research, revealing analysis, and keen psychological acuity, Weisberg explores the whole Bush story. Distilling all that has been previously written about Bush into a defining portrait, he illuminates the fateful choices and key decisions that led George W., and thereby the country, into its current predicament. Weisberg gives the tragedy a historical and literary frame, comparing Bush not just to previous American leaders, but also to Shakespeare's Prince Hal, who rises from ne'er-do-well youth to become the warrior king Henry V." "Delving as no other biography has into Bush's religious beliefs - which are presented as at once opportunistic and sincere - The Bush Tragedy is an essential work that is sure to become a standard reference for any future assessment. It is the most balanced and compelling account of a sitting president ever written."--BOOK JACKET.