Robert Pennoyer, author of “As It Was” (Prospect Press, 2021), will be featured at the LA Times Festival of Books in Spring 2022. This book recounts the author's recollections of what it was like to be born into a legendary family—his maternal grandfather was the legendary J.P. Morgan.
The story begins with his sheltered childhood on Long Island's Gold Coast, followed by an adolescence overshadowed by the looming clouds of World War II, and a young adulthood that survived one of the Pacific Theater's decisive engagements - Iwo Jima.
But, despite his tough upbringing, Robert tells us a heartwarming story about a romance that blossomed into a lifelong matrimonial partnership and a close family life. He recounts a distinguished career, the first half of which he spent in President Eisenhower's administration and the second in private law practice and pro bono work.
It tells the story of an era of unprecedented wealth and privilege for some, and great misery and poverty for others—one that Mark Twain lampooned as the “Gilded Age,” and ends, coming in effect full circle, in our own era of the One Per Cent, as the income chasm in America reopens. What separates these eras, and is so vividly depicted here, is the rise of American Progressivism, led by the two Roosevelts.
Most importantly, “As It Was” is a demonstration of the values that propelled America to greatness, and no better example could be found than its author. It reflects a passionate and unwavering belief in democracy, as well as a deep appreciation for the institutions that enable it.
According to Anon, Amazon Reviewer, this book is “…one of the most touching and gratifying memoirs I've read in a very long time. I am absolutely amazed by the author's level-headed honesty and strong sense of honor. I was delighted to find this book, delighted to find a reflection of our own family/tribal values and even more delighted to be able to recommend it to you all.”
A surprisingly wonderful memoir from an extraordinary gentleman. Thoughtful, personal, immediate, suffused with the values of the best of his tribe and his generation.
As It Was
Author | Robert Pennoyer
Genre | Memoir
Publisher | Prospect Press
Published date | October 20, 2015
Interested? Get a copy of Robert Pennoyer's new release on Amazon and come visit the upcoming LA Times Festival in Spring 2022.
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