Evan CarmichaelSpeaker / Author / Introvert

These 3 Simple Books Made Barack Obama President

23 Jul 2016 · 0 min

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In a brief interview segment, Evan Carmichael asks former President Barack Obama about his favorite books. Obama cites three works that have profoundly influenced him: the Bible, which he says shaped and moved him the most; Toni Morrison's novel Song of Solomon, which he describes as beautiful and praises Morrison as an elegant, wise, and thoughtful writer; and Shakespeare's tragedies, specifically Hamlet and King Lear, which he notes reveal new insights each time they are read, offering powerful reflections on the human dilemma. The interview concludes with Carmichael inviting viewers to comment on their experiences with these books and to suggest future series on successful people's reading recommendations.

Mr. President, people want to know what is your favorite book?
Well, the Bible is the book that shaped me and moved me the most. But in addition to that, Toni Morrison's Song of Solomon might be one of my favorite books. It's just a beautiful, beautiful book. Beautiful book. And I've gotten a chance to know Toni Morrison during the course of this campaign, and she's just as elegant and wise and thoughtful as you'd want her to be. You know, it's always nice when you meet somebody and they turn out to be like you want them to be. She's just a spectacular writer and a spectacular woman. Shakespeare's tragedies, whether it's Hamlet or Lear You know, there's so much in each of those tragedies. I mean, you can, you can read that once a year, and each year there's something new, there's something you didn't notice, there's some insight into the human dilemma. It's powerful stuff.
Thank you guys so much for watching. I'd love to know if you've read the books that President Obama recommends, what you thought of them. Leave it in the comments below. Also, if you like this series and want it to continue where we learn from people who've had success and what their favorite books are, leave it in the comments and maybe we'll keep doing it. Thank you guys for watching. Continue to believe and we'll see you soon.