For Love of Politics

Reading about one Clinton means learning about both of them. Sally Bedell Smith takes a critical look at the time Bill and Hillary spent in the White House, focusing on political, financial, and personal struggles. Some of the material feels like a rehash--especially her concentration on Bill and other women, including a detailed account of the Monica Lewinsky affair. At best, Richard McGonagle's narration is fair, but his overall reading is a bit pedestrian. His delivery resonates like a documentary voice-over, with no changes in the inflection of quotes from the president or first lady, or anyone else, for that matter. But for those wanting an overview of Whitewater or a summary of extramarital accusations, this abridgment is for you. M.B. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine