George Bush

Parmet (Richard Nixon and His America) presents a richly detailed rather than insightful portrait of our 41st president (1989-1993). Because the author had access to Bush's private papers as well as the cooperation of his family, he is able to provide information on Bush's thoughts during presidential crises like the Gulf War and the savings-and-loan scandal. Parmet is sympathetic to his subject, remarking frequently on the former Republican president's likable personality and commitment to the positions he held, which included congressman, U.N. ambassador, CIA director and vice president to Ronald Reagan. Bush emerges as pleasant and hardworking, but we're shown nothing of what lies behind the genial smile. (Nov.)