Michael K. Deaver spent more than twenty years as one of Ronald Reagan's closest advisors in both Sacramento and Washington. In the White House, he served as assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff from January 1981 until May 1985. Deaver, chief of staff James A. Baker III, and Edwin Meese were seen as the triumvirate directing the Reagan administration's successful first term. Deaver is widely credited with being the architect of the Reagan communications program, including the landslide presidential campaigns of 1980 and 1984. He currently serves as vice chairman, international, for Edelman Worldwide and executive vice president and director of corporate affairs for Edelman's Washington office. He lives with his wife in Maryland.
From a friend of 35 years. Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.
To long-time Reagan staffer Deaver, it has often seemed as if there were two Nancy Reagans, one whom the public loves to criticize and a private, gentler version. In his latest book, Deaver (A Different Drummer) writes about a Nancy Reagan most people have never gotten to know. Deaver is not blind to his subject's failings, but he argues that the public has never really understood what Nancy is about. Her involvement in political matters, her impatient and intimidating demeanor and her take-no-prisoners attitude stemmed, he says, from a genuine desire to protect and shield her husband from those who had something other than his best interests at heart. Throughout the trials that have plagued the Reagans' lives, from the assassination attempt to the president's affliction with Alzheimer's, Nancy has stood unfailingly by Reagan's side, even if he can no longer stand by hers. "It was always about him," Deaver explains. This is not a comprehensive biography, nor does it seek to push a political agenda. More than anything, it is deeply personal, a moving tribute to the Nancy Reagan he got to know over the many years in their personal and professional relationship. His poignant writing portrays a determined and courageous woman who throughout her life has been motivated by one thing: love. Politics was just noise in the background. 8 pages of b&w photos not seen by PW. (Feb.) Forecast: The appealing cover photo of Nancy with the laughing face should help draw readers to this insider's look at her life. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.
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