Churchill

If you are in God's good favor you had a great history teacher who knew and loved his subject and transferred that enthusiasm to you. Paul Johnson would have been that kind of teacher, and this little book on Churchill proves why. This is the first Johnson book I've read (although I own a few, and have more on my wishlist) and what a shame that it's taken me so long to read one! He has an obvious love of his subject, but that does not preclude him from criticizing his hero (e.g. Churchill's complete dismissal of defense issues during the run-up to WWII when he was Chancellor of the Exchequer). Also, Johnson is branded an "conservative" historian by many, but he does not use this book to hammer Churchill on his lifelong support of the ever-growing British welfare state that he helped to construct.As others have mentioned, even thought this is a short book, Johnson does not just give a chronological survey of Churchill's life. His analysis on the 10 factors that made Churchill indispensable to the WWII victory effort are very convincing.And lastly, how can you not love a book about a man so quoteable? Two of my favorites:"Facts are better than dreams.""If Hitler invaded Hell, at least I would ensure that in the House of Commons I made a favourable reference to the Devil."