The book blends biden's comprehensive and agonising account of how his son, beau, succumbed to the tragedy of a brain tumour with his efforts, as vice-president, to resolve major foreign policy challenges, particularly in iraq, ukraine and central america. this is, therefore, an unusual book but the author's approach worked for me. although the sadness of the story is heart breaking, biden's loving relationship with his son and family is inspiring. i felt privileged to be allowed into joe biden's grieving process as well as gaining an insight into how he applies his considerable political experience to resolve complex issues.