So Help Me God

INTRODUCTION — There's a lot to say about this book, but I've summarized my overall view of it in the headline of this review: well-written, interesting, relevant, and important. I'll list a few comments below, organized alphabetically by topic.FAITH — The frequent quoting of scriptures and references to Jesus, God, and faith, are woven throughout the book. For anyone who has lived a similar daily life of prayer and Christian mindfulness, this will seem completely normal. It's like a daily devotional. For non-religious readers, this may seem unusual. Even for people who consider themselves Christians, it may seem excessive. It could be interpreted as proselytizing or an attempt to appear to be very pious. It would help some readers to have this explained in the introduction. Some of the reviews on Amazon suggest people are not familiar with this kind of attentiveness to scripture and prayer. Since there are millions of people of Christian faith (and other religions) who live a similar conservative life of daily observance, it's helpful to have this book available as an introduction to what that life is like and understand one's more religious neighbors better.JOURNALISM — I'm old enough to remember a time when reporters and journalists would provide an objective description of events. There is still some unbiased reporting today, but it's less common. In this book, Pence is like a journalist in that he covers a mix of unflattering life events and weaknesses, as well as some high points. Rather than a retouched Instagram-worthy portrayal of his life, he shares the entire picture. Seemingly mundane events and more exciting ones. When combined, these accounts give us a good context and backdrop to the unfolding story of the book.POLITICS — The book stands on its own as an interesting life story. Given the remarkable political developments we've witnessed in recent years, it's unavoidable for this book not to be interpreted with a political lens. Pence was quiet for a long time after his life was threatened by an angry mob in January of 2021. When recently interviewed about the incident, he explained that he found the incident "disappointing" or something to that effect. This understated and reserved response seems consistent with his overall personality. Pence clearly doesn't want to say anything disparaging about the party or provide fodder to be used later. A potential Pence presidency would likely be a more polite and civil continuation of the policies and practices he supported during his time as Vice President and the years prior.CONCLUSION — I'd suggest you download or view the online free sample. It will give you a good sense of what to expect. There are some surprises in the book that are unexpected based on the predominant public representation of Pence and our limited exposure to him in the news. When initially writing this review (on 26 Nov 2022), I was starting on Chapter Seven. I've only slightly modified the review in this reposting on 4 Jun 2023. Upon completing the book, I'll come back and make any needed changes to this review. Like Pence, the Midwest is my home, but I've also lived many years in the Washington, D.C. area. I went to college at about the same time he did. Much of the life experiences he describes are familiar and similar to my own. So, for me, the book is probably more relatable. I'm curious to see how the Republican Party evolves in the next two years and this book seems like an important trailhead landmark. I will probably refer back to it. Thanks for reading this review. Feel free to post any comments or questions and I'll try to reply.

The book is a heartwarming, exhilarating, honest, and encouraging autobiography of Mike and Karen Pence. Their obedience, to giving their God-given best in opportunities to serve Indiana and the United States, is invigorating. Mike’s sharing of the ups and downs of achieving success is expertly written. God used Mike to guide the United States for a season of time. Mike's book positively expresses the Holy Spirit’s leading with his words, thoughts, and actions. I look forward to seeing where God will lead Mike and Karen to serve next, and to another book.

I was very eager to read this book and I was not disappointed. I will not go into great detail explaining what is written inside because that is why you buy a book in the first place, to read it for yourself. Mike Pence really impressed me with his story. He told it without being mean or petty to anyone. I find it refreshing that he did not run anyone down and still gave his honest opinion about the events of the Trump Pence presidency. I appreciated his references to his faith. We need more public servants who have a respect for God and doing what is right. I have never been a Trump fan, his attitude rubs me the wrong way. But I would be very proud to vote for Mike Pence as president.Now, as for the condition of the book, I am not happy. My copy had an oily stain on the edge of the dust jacket and the binding is loose on the front page. Amazon did not describe this book as a second so not sure what is going on with that. I will keep the book as my husband can fix it for me. It will be a keeper in my library.

Despite his polarizing politics, readers familiar with Midwestern politics, prayer, and Christian mindfulness may find Pence's reflections genuine and relatable. His measured response to the events of January 6th reflects his reserved demeanor, avoiding party disparagement and future controversies. "So Help Me God" serves as a sincere and inspiring autobiography, highlighting Pence's unwavering commitment to faith and public service. Pence appears more complex than portrayed in the media, showing both susceptibility to influence and discipline in his principles. The book examines failures in state response, such as COVID-19 and the 2015 Indiana HIV outbreak, illustrating how poor political leadership adds chaos to crises. It provides insights into pivotal events like January 6th, 2021, portraying Pence's ceremonial role during the insurrection as a reflection of his Christian values. While the initial chapters engage, the narrative loses honesty post-Trump, revealing compromises in values but still presenting Pence's measured responses without sensationalism.

Easy to read biography of an important player in American politics. I wondered what kind of conversations between President Trump and Vice President Pence took place, especially around Jan. 6, 2021. The book delivers on that. Vice President Pence is entrenched in the idea that he made the right decision to take only a ceremonial leadership position on Jan. 6. I think he made a mistake not to throw his weight behind Senator Cruz's motion for 10 days to investigate election fraud. From what I read in the book, Vice President Pence turned down a meeting with Sidney Powell. From that point on, Vice President Pence began to shut out legal counsel that could have helped him understand a more aggressive legal strategy. He basically listened to the wrong people, the wrong lawyers, and decided to play it safe. Safe for himself, that is, while claiming that he was taking the harder path of following the law. Regardless of differences of thought, he is an honest person who forgives and is, in turn, forgiven. His Christian values and desire to put God first shine. His book is a worthwhile read.

Enjoyed the entire book well done and kept me interested until the enf

As expected.

A fascinating glimpse into the workings and goings on in the White House, USA, written by a man who was Vice President of the USA during the 'reign' of Donald Trump. He honestly and humbly shares his journey through the political turmoil of the day and deals with everything sincerely and openly, especially how his Christian faith guided and upheld him in every circumstance. I bought it for a gift to my son who thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

Did not care it.