A Different Drummer

Michael Deaver's relationship with Ronald Reagan far exceeded his White House job title of deputy chief of staff. For 35 years, Deaver was a selfless friend and close-mouthed confidant of the Great Communicator. His memoir highlights the spiritual and human aspects of Reagan's presidency but includes some fascinating insights into his policies as well. For example, the description of how the assassination attempt transformed Reagan's dealings with the Soviet Union presents a nonideological side of the president that neither his friends nor his enemies have adequately explored.