battled. His inability to say no might not serve today, but his belief in what was right yet willingness to respect those against him would be a godsend today. This book like a Jimmy Stewart or John Wayne paints a picture of what is great in America, it's the picture the way we'd like it to be, the way I think O'Neill wanted people to strive for. Its a picture of looking out for the other guy and all the stories of all the regular people that come with it. It's portrait of the regular guy is its charm, and the stories THE STORIES mother's milk for the political junkie. If you want all of the rough edges Farrell's book is probally better, but if you want the essence of a great man this book should be your choice.