Community Reviews

Rating(3.8 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
21(21%)
4 stars
36(36%)
3 stars
43(43%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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100 reviews
July 14,2025
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Shultz had an amazing ability. She could promote optimism, feminism, and progressive politics. And she did it all with a wide variety of jokes, yet without ever sounding cheesy. She effectively reminds the reader of all the extensive work that goes into a campaign. It makes one realize the huge risk that many people are more than willing to take in an attempt to bring about a difference in our political system.


I have been reading Shultz's column in the Cleveland Plain Dealer ever since I was a child. However, it's not just those who are familiar with Ohio politics who will enjoy her work. Even those who are not familiar with Ohio politics, or perhaps even those who have a certain aversion to Ohio because of the 2004 presidential election, will still find great pleasure in her unique style and her honest attitude towards life as a campaign wife. Her writing has a charm and authenticity that can appeal to a wide range of readers.

July 14,2025
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Maybe it was because I read this in the thick of election season and I was just too inundated with political commercials, but

ehn. I definitely appreciated hearing from the spouse of a politician.

Too often, I think this role is grossly overlooked and underestimated.

The sacrifice they make is ENORMOUS.

And for a woman like Connie Schultz, who was very professionally successful in her own right, this was a life-changing decision.

She had to give up a lot of her own career aspirations and focus on supporting her husband's political endeavors.

I think the political realm has changed dramatically since Connie Schultz wrote this book.

So there were some things she wrote about that just don't ring true these days.

For example, the way campaigns are run now is very different from what it was back then.

Overall, it was fine.

It gave me some insights into the life of a politician's spouse, but it wasn't a particularly earth-shattering or eye-opening read.

However, I still think it's important to hear from people in all different roles within the political sphere.
July 14,2025
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Do you long to regain your faith in our politicians? Then this memoir by the remarkable Cleveland Plain Dealer columnist is a must-read. I have a great love for Connie Schultz. Among all her works, this one about her life with her husband's decision to run for Senator (Sherrod Brown) is my absolute favorite.

Connie Schultz's writing is both engaging and thought-provoking. She takes us on a journey through the ups and downs of her husband's political campaign, sharing her own experiences and emotions along the way. Through her words, we get a glimpse into the world of politics and the people who strive to make a difference.

Reading this memoir not only gives us an inside look at the political process but also restores our hope in the power of good leadership. It reminds us that there are still politicians out there who are committed to serving the public and making a positive impact on our society. So, if you're looking for an inspiring and informative read, pick up Connie Schultz's memoir and let her words reignite your faith in our politicians.

July 14,2025
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Connie Schultz is truly a hero of mine.

She has this remarkable ability to share the story of being a political wife while simultaneously maintaining a stellar career of her own.

Her account is filled with both deep insight and a great sense of humor.

It's not easy to balance the demands of a high-profile political life and a successful professional career, but Connie does it with grace and style.

She offers a unique perspective on the challenges and joys that come with being in the public eye and having a partner in the political arena.

Her story is an inspiration to all those who strive to have it all and make a difference in the world.

Connie Schultz is a true role model, and I admire her for her courage, determination, and ability to tell her story in such an engaging and entertaining way.

July 14,2025
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As a non-Ohioan, I came across this particular piece after Schultz had written an article for the Chicago Trib literary magazine. That article was truly remarkable.

The book, although it might seem a bit on the long side, has its own charm. Schultz's warmth and honesty are palpable throughout the pages. It's as if she is sharing her thoughts and experiences with you in the most genuine way.

Moreover, she offers some truly enlightening insights into the American political process. These insights are not only thought-provoking but also help to shed light on the complex and often convoluted world of politics.

Overall, despite its length, the book is a worthwhile read. Schultz's writing style and her unique perspective make it an engaging and informative piece that can offer readers a deeper understanding of both the author and the American political landscape.
July 14,2025
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I thoroughly enjoyed Connie Schultz' detailed account of her year-long + campaigning experience with her husband, Sherrod Brown, for his senate seat, mainly in 2006.

She not only shared the highlights and challenges of the campaign but also provided some fascinating insights into their enviable marriage, which appears to be firmly cemented by their mutual ideals.

As Schultz delved into her childhood and family life, I couldn't help but notice some similarities with the circumstances depicted in her more recent novel.

Her writing style is engaging and relatable, making me wish that she could be my friend in real life.

The quotes she included also added depth to her narrative.

"...they [her parents] wore their bodies out so that we would never have to." (85) This statement really struck a chord with me, highlighting the sacrifices that parents often make for their children.

"Now I have nothing against white men...I do think, however, if only white men are weighing in, you lose certain perspectives, such as those coming from entire groups of people who don't enjoy the same political, economic, and social advantages that come automatically to a lot of white men. Women, and people of all colors, come to mind." (122) This quote emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in decision-making processes.

"We knew it was important to be upbeat no matter how bad a week we were having, and this helped us focus on what was actually going right." (138) This final quote serves as a reminder to stay positive and look for the good in every situation.
July 14,2025
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I have a great appreciation for this story as a former Ohioian. It is truly a good book that vividly describes their experiences. And his lovely wife, she is an important part of this story. Their souls are so good and kind. Reading about their journey makes me feel warm inside. It shows the beauty of human nature and the power of love and perseverance. The author has done a wonderful job of bringing their story to life. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an inspiring and heartwarming read. It will surely touch your heart and make you believe in the goodness of people.

July 14,2025
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The original text seems a bit unclear. However, I'll try to expand and rewrite it based on what I understand.

I found the article to be more like a 3.5 out of 5.

It wasn't a perfect piece, but there was something about it that made it interesting.

Maybe it was the unique perspective it offered or the engaging writing style.

Whatever the reason, it managed to keep me reading from start to finish.

I was invested in the story and wanted to know what would happen next.

The author did a good job of creating a sense of anticipation and curiosity.

Even though there were some areas that could have been improved, overall, it was an enjoyable read.

I would recommend it to others who are looking for something a little different and engaging.
July 14,2025
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I have a deep affection for Connie Schultz's writing. Her words have a unique charm that always manages to draw me in.

I had the thought that it would be better for me to read this particular piece of hers before her husband, Sherrod, decided to run for President.

So, I set out to do just that. I dedicated my time and energy to getting through it.

Interestingly enough, I completed reading it on the very day that he made the announcement that he would not be running.

However, despite this unexpected turn of events, I am not in the least bit sorry.

This book was truly a good read. It provided me with valuable insights and entertained me throughout.

And, of course, Sherrod will still remain my Senator. I have full confidence in his abilities and will continue to support him in his political endeavors.

I look forward to seeing what the future holds for both Connie Schultz and Sherrod.
July 14,2025
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This provided a great perspective on what it is truly like to be on the campaign trail of a major candidate.

The author, who was a columnist for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, shared her experiences.

When her husband ran for Senate, she was able to give us a detailed account of what it was like for her.

We got to see the behind-the-scenes activities, the challenges they faced, and the excitement that came with it.

It was a fascinating look into the world of political campaigning.

Her insights helped us understand the dedication and hard work that goes into running for office.

Overall, it was a great read that gave us a better understanding of the campaign process.
July 14,2025
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I truly relished this memoir.

Perhaps it was mainly because of my acquaintance with the author and her husband. I was raised outside of Cleveland, Ohio.

Sherrod Brown was my representative in Congress for a significant number of years in my life, until he was redistricted out of my parents' ZIP Code.

Actually, when I was in college, I had the opportunity to do an internship for his office in Washington DC, and I have always been a huge advocate of his.

His wife, Connie Schultz, the author, is (or was) a renowned writer and reporter for the local newspaper, and I closely follow her on Facebook.

I discovered her account of the campaign for the Congressional Senate seat in 2006 to be both humorous and enlightening.

She depicts a tiresome 13 months, interspersed with amusing anecdotes and an abundance of love.

She and Sherrod are a fortunate couple, encompassed by remarkable friends and family who provide their unwavering support throughout the campaign.

July 14,2025
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I began following Connie Schultz and her charming husband, Sherrod Brown, on social media several years ago.

I was drawn to her humor and perceptive commentary.

Then, I came across this book that details her experiences as a woman and as the candidate's wife during the 2005-6 US Senate campaign.

Being a talented Pulitzer-winning journalist herself, she writes from multiple perspectives.

As a feminist, she is committed to maintaining her identity.

As a dedicated spouse, she focuses on nurturing the marriage while they endure a demanding campaign.

And as an American, she is dedicated to upholding the values and ideals she shares with her husband.

From what I gathered from this book, any one of these perspectives can easily be overshadowed in the chaos, the constant time constraints, and the nature of US politics, even in the early 2000s.

Similar to many memoirs written by public figures, there are numerous names of people (which I had trouble keeping track of, so I simply enjoyed the associated stories).

Overall, I really enjoyed her writing - it was at times funny, witty, sarcastic, and emotional.

It provided a unique and engaging look into her life and the world of politics.
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