Modern presidents have followed that literary tradition, writing books that capture not only their own experiences, but also the evolution of a nation.
- Jimmy Carter has proven a rather prolific author, with Why Not the Best?, Sharing Good Times, Beyond the White House, and several other titles to his name.
- Herbert Hoover completely eschewed writing about his life as president, opting instead to write about his favorite pastime in Fishing for Fun and to Wash Your Soul.
- Gerald Ford is the author of the most diverse works; he not only wrote the autobiography A Time to Heal, but also the much lighter fare, Humor and the Presidency.
- Ronald Reagan contributed two autobiographies: An American Life and Speaking My Mind.
- Rather than writing the typical autobiography, George H W Bush published All the Best, a collection of his presidential correspondence, and Speaking of Freedom, a selection of his speeches. His son George W. Bush also took up the authorial mantle and wrote Decision Points.
- Bill Clinton took up the pen to write My Life and Giving¸ both of which have remained popular.
- Barack Obama joined the ranks of presidential authors with The Audacity of Hope and Of Thee I Sing.
- President Trump wrote many books before taking office. We'll have to wait and see what his literary output is during and after his presidency.
Numerous other luminaries, including first ladies and world leaders, have contributed to our understanding of U.S. presidents and our country. These books make exceptional additions to the personal library.
