Who could be a better commentator on the quixotic Generallissimo Giuliani than wry political reporter Andrew Kirtzman? Informative, well-researched, engaging. A great read on a larger-than-life character. It's pure New York.

Having lived through those turbulent years and having to begrudginly give my approval to many of the things that he did,I find that the balance in this superbly written and easy to read study make me more comfortable with my feelings. Kirtzman doesn't take sides as much as he presents both sides allowing the reader to get a better feel for this complex and often forbidding and not forgiving mayor without sacrificing your basic reactions to the man. A must read.

There is no question that Rudy Giuliani is a fascinating figure that has reshaped the political landscape of New York City. Kirtzman provides a fast-paced and entertaining account of Rudy's career from its beginning to the present, capturing both the highs and lows that many of us are familiar with, while not being aware of all the finer details. Thankfully he does not concern himself with sensationalizing his subject like another recent Giuliani biographer, painting a much more balanced portrait instead. An excellent book, I highly reccommend it.