Diplomacy and Diamonds
My Wars from the Ballroom to the Battlefield
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- $10.99
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- $10.99
Publisher Description
She's been dirt poor; she's been filthy rich. Rich was more fun. She married three times, divorced twice, found her true love, and lost him to cancer. At twenty-one, she was told she would soon die. She lived. Doctors said she'd never be able to have children. She had 'em. She's bargained with God, dictators, and Democrats. She's partied with princes, presidents, premiers, Barbara Walters, Anwar Sadat, Margaret Thatcher, Tom Hanks, and Francisco Franco . . . though not all at the same time. She captivated powerful men with her feminine charm, and then persuaded them toward unlikely political alliances through her formidable intelligence. She waltzed with Prince Philip in Buckingham Palace, dressed in men's clothes and smuggled herself in a barrel across the Pakistani border, threw a Roman-themed party so extravagant it was featured in Life magazine, and survived a Soviet gunship attack in the mountains of Afghanistan.
Joanne Herring, the Houston socialite portrayed by Julia Roberts in the film Charlie Wilson's War, is far more colorful, funny, and likable than any screenwriter could have guessed. The former Texas television anchor is known for her improbable fight with the mujahideen against the former Soviet Union. But her full story-with all its God, guns, and Gucci glory-has never been told. Born in the man's world of Texas in a time when women had limited choices, Joanne Herring blazed a trail with allies as unlikely as Charlie Wilson, Pierre Cardin, and President Ronald Reagan . . . and in so doing forged new paths for women in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and America.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Famed Texas socialite Herring is best known for her role in "Charlie Wilson's War" as the impetus behind America funding the mujahadeen. After being played by Julia Roberts in the film version, Herring worried that some accuracy was sacrificed. Here, she offers an account of her three marriages, experiences with wealth and poverty, steadfast faith, and role in America's covert aid to Afghanistan during the Cold War. Her endearing candor and priceless anecdotes balance the fact that she seems drastically out of touch with the average working person's experience, which may alienate readers with whom she claims a strong connection. As the narrative jumps around chronologically, Herring, a natural storyteller, offers reminisces of a life well-lived, as well as many press clippings, all while being as fair as possible with people who don't share her political beliefs (Aaron Sorkin being a great example). A deeply fascinating woman, Herring manages to live her faith without being overbearing in her dogma. Readers interested in the rich, famous and politically influential will love every minute.
Customer Reviews
Inspiring, Entertaining Stories of a Woman who Changed the Course of History and is Doing It Again T
Talk about a woman that puts vision and dreams into action!!! Anyone wanting to (i) Read an entertaining, inspiring book, or (ii) Help Afghanistan (she's donating money from book sales towards building a model village in Afghanistan through her Marshall Plan Charities), should buy Ms. Joanne King Herring's new book. I promise you will be amazed by her story that was not always smooth (contrary to public perception).
I do not sit still for anything, and I read this book in two sittings. I could hardly put the book down wanting to read more about the life, experiences and wisdom of this amazing woman. While Joanne has been a blessing in my life in recent years, I learned so much that provided clarity about her storied life, persevering with strong faith in Christ, and amazing accomplishments. I have gained even more respect and appreciation for the way she has led her life. If you want to be inspired, this is the book of a lifetime to read!