An Hour Before Daylight by Jimmy Carter (2001, Hardcover, Illustrated)

This book details memories of President Jimmy Carter regarding his growing up years in Archery, Georgia, just outside of the town of Plains. The vivid reconstruction of events in his early years, paired with the frank and evocative descriptions of people that touched his life are expertly tied together. The book takes you there and allows you to experience life when it was both more simple but also explores the complexity of subdued relationships with people of color, his parents, and others. It is a singular work which gives a very accurate snapshot of southern life during the 1930's and forward. For those not fond of this past President, the social value of the book is still worth the read. For those, like myself, who still greatly admire him and are intrigued by his vision, his values and his wisdom, this is captivating reading. At age 18 I exercised my first opportunity to vote for this man, and I would do it again today, this book confirms I made the right decision.