Thumbs Up: The Life and Courageous Comeback of White House Press Secretary, Jim Brady

When a bullet meant for Reagan hit his 40-year-old press secretary, Jim Brady, in March 1981, it not only cut short a promising career, but deprived the administration of a valuable spokesman who enjoyed the president's trust and had excellent relations with the press. For this adulatory biography, freelance writer Dickenson had full cooperation of thefamily, who recall Brady's youth in a small Illinois railroad town, along with reminiscences by colleagues and press members of his activities in local and national political campaigns, government agencies and on Congressional staffs. The author testifies with boundless admiration to Brady's heroic efforts during a painful recovery and slow physical and mental rehabilitationa daily struggle that Brady endures with courage and good humor and irrepressible wit. Applauded here also is his wife Sarah, not only because of her unfailing support, but for her crusade to outlaw handguns. Photos not seen by PW. Literary Guild alternate. (November 16)