P. J. O'Brien (1)

Published shortly after his death, this more a eulogy than a biography of Will Rogers. Although much of Will Rogers' wit and wisdom is timeless, the majority of it is lost on us today because it was spontaneous and based on current events, of which most of us today are not familiar. This book was written for the people of his time rather than for posterity.

Overall it is however a good read and does give one a good deal of insight into the kind of man that Will Rogers was. He was generous to a fault, quick-witted, and loved by people worldwide, yet he remained rooted and humble throughout his life. And, of course, "He never met a man he didn't like," -- Grandpa… (more)

I've only just now skimmed it, but it seems an excellent and fast reading account. What a card he was, and so aware of the issues of the day. This is not an historical biography or critical account, it came out soon after Rogers' death. It is fast, informative, and due to the many quotes, quite entertaining. Because of Rogers' visits with so many world leaders, of which I was not aware, there is some real historical insight to be gleaned from the work. World leaders and human nature both failed between the two wars, in spite of Rogers' efforts. He died in a plane crash in 1935 in Alaska. He was on an early leg of a trip around the world, a Jon Stewart of his time, though more kindly, less indignant. There is a bit about the reputation of bankers, before and after the 1929 crash, that reminded me a great deal of the recent economic collapse. Human nature is slow to change, if at all. While history seems to repeat itself, we can only hope that gradually the best of human spirit will rise to the fore. The book includes a wonderful preface by Lowell Thomas; attractive binding, and many photographs.… (more)