The Clintons: Their Story in Photographs

In the latest from bestselling author/editor Cohen (Obama: The Historic Front Pages), ample accompanying text retells the Clintons’ biographies before, during, and after their White House years, with fine portraits and tellingly candid moments from their political and personal lives. With a foreword by Hardball host Chris Matthews, this commemorative book’s primary appeal is the way it underscores the Clintons as photographic subjects and portrays their marriage across the decades. As expected, the 42nd president makes a charismatic, emotionally transparent portrait. In one image, Clinton watches with characteristic relish as Al Gore argues successfully on CNN against Ross Perot. Elsewhere, the grin he trades with longtime foe Newt Gingrich belies a clear zest for their struggle. From the beginning, Hillary shows rare strength and ease as a woman amid the most powerful company in Washington, relaxed in front of the camera, and clearly enjoying the spotlight. A talented nonverbal communicator, the current secretary of state has been photographed in all manner of tense and awkward situations: shooting a heavy glance, betraying the stress of a tense moment, or grinning with an infectious exuberance, yet despite the strains of her marriage and life, she always appears poised and centered. 220 photos. (Oct.)