Barry Werth Knihy

The narrative explores the life of Newton Arvin, a distinguished scholar of American literature, whose academic contributions to authors like Hawthorne and Melville remain influential. His friendships with literary figures and mentorship of Truman Capote highlight his significant role in the literary community. However, as a social radical and closeted homosexual, he faced the challenges of McCarthyism. A pivotal moment occurs in 1960 when a police raid exposes his private life, leading to personal turmoil and the betrayal of friends, showcasing the complexities of his character and era.

This inside account of Vertex, a start-up pharmaceutical company, conveys the exciting drama being played out in the pioneering and enormously profitable field of drug research. Vertex is dedicated to designing--atom by atom--a new life-saving immunosuppressant drug that has major implications for HIV research.

Set during the pivotal month of August 1974, the narrative explores the chaotic aftermath of Richard Nixon's resignation and Gerald Ford's ascent to the presidency. Barry Werth provides a detailed, day-by-day account of Ford's efforts to navigate the political landscape marked by the Watergate scandal, balancing the nation's demand for justice with his moral convictions. The book highlights the emergence of influential figures like Donald Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney, offering insights into the political dynamics that shaped modern governance and continue to resonate today.