Born to one of Boston's wealthiest families, John F. Kennedy was the youngest elected president—and one of the most mythologized figures in American history. Taking a deeper look, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Embers of War traces Jack from birth through his decision to run for president, to reveal his early relationships, his formative World War II experiences, his writings, and his political aspirations. While crafting a nuanced portrait of JFK, Fredrik Logevall also tells the parallel story of America's own midcentury rise.

"Logevall conveys both JFK's humanity and the history of the age…. It's a powerful, provocative, and above all compelling book."—Jon Meacham