Book · 1990 · Politics and government
What I Saw at the Revolution
Why people recommend it
What I Saw at the Revolution by Peggy Noonan is a widely read political memoir and insider account written by Ronald Reagan's former speechwriter. On an episode of the Lex Fridman Podcast titled Michael Malice: New Year's Special, guest Michael Malice recommended the book, recalling it as some of the first truly valuable writing advice he ever received due to Noonan's distinct professional background working closely with President Reagan. Later, on an episode of The Book Review titled Susan Orlean on a Great Library Fire, Pamela Paul discussed discovering the memoir while she was in the process of writing her own first book long ago. Paul noted that she picked up Noonan's work out of curiosity and was immediately struck by the author's very particular and engaging voice. Across these two podcast appearances, speakers highlighted the enduring appeal of Noonan's literary style, her keen observations of Washington politics, and the practical value of her memoirs for aspiring writers and political observers alike, cementing the book's reputation as a classic text on political speechwriting and Washington culture.
Who recommended it
- Pamela Paul Discussed
- Michael Malice Recommended
Pamela Paul — 1 mention
“when I was writing my first book long time ago I for reasons not that interesting to go into mostly curiosity I picked up Peggy nunan's what I saw at the Revolution and she has a very particular voice”
Michael Malice — 1 mention
“the first like real good writing advice i remember getting was this book by peggy noonan called what i sought the revolution and she was ronald reagan's speechwriter”