Character Is Destiny: Inspiring Stories Every Young Person Should Know and Every Adult Should Remember

With the optimistic, confident delivery (occasionally peppered with a slightly precious, "for children" tone) familiar to viewers of Sunday morning political programs, Senator McCain serves up an admirable family recording with bipartisan appeal. Beginning with his own parents (a mother who is always eager to learn and "a stickler for good manners," and a father whose integrity shone in his dedication to military service, at one point a commander to his son in Vietnam), McCain profiles individuals who he feels exemplify attributes of good character. Thomas More was a great example of honesty; Ernest Shackleton exhibited loyalty, Victor Frankl dignity, and McCain himself clung to faith during his time as a prisoner of war. McCain's overriding message, that character is all about choices, and that one's character—not looks, abilities or possessions—determines one's happiness in life, is certainly an inspirational one that listeners from any political orientation can get behind. (Dec. 2005)