The President's Devotional

Starred review from November 15, 2013

When DuBois (former head, White House Office of Faith-Based & Neighborhood Partnerships) led the religious affairs department of Sen. Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, he received Obama's permission to send him daily devotional email messages. As part of the Obama presidential administration, he continued to do so. He has now selected 365 of those emails, labeled here from January 1 through December 31, to inspire hope, illuminate key principles, or replenish a person's busy life. Even though the book is based upon a calendar year, readers can really dip in as they choose or begin reading on any date. Entries feature a short biblical quotation, sometimes an additional relevant secular quotation, a snippet from a song or verse, a brief daily meditation, and a short prayer. Each month is prefaced by an autobiographical essay by DuBois relating to challenges the Obama administration confronted and how they connect to themes of faith and doubt and of moving forward. VERDICT It is unnecessary for a reader to have any particular theological or political background to gain from the book through the inspirational thoughts and encouragement expressed. Many readers are likely to find themselves attracted to this appealing title.--William Garrett, Troy Univ. Lib., AL

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