A groundbreaking look at the lives of George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush, the most consequential father-son pair in American history, often in their own words. In this endearing, illuminating work, presidential historian Mark K. Updegrove tracks the two Bush presidents from their formative years through their post-presidencies and the failed presidential candidacy of Jeb Bush, derailing the Bush presidential dynasty.

Part I. I never looked back -- A flash of light -- Bar -- Go west -- The sky's the limit -- More than tongue can tell -- Aggravation and pride -- A certain sort of expectation -- Part II. A debt to pay -- To do something of service -- Young and foolish -- A whole different life -- Up in the air -- Listen to your conscience -- Horizons -- Go east -- Coming home -- Defeat isn't defeat -- Part III. Turning points -- The big mo -- The call from Reagan -- A heartbeat away -- Arbusto or bust -- Why don't you come to Washington -- Awakening -- Junior -- Be tough -- Not so kind, not so gentle -- Part IV. 41 -- A new breeze -- Comfortable in the job -- A whole new ballgame -- Commander-in-chief -- You can't give in -- Coming of age -- Defeat with dignity -- Finish strong -- Part V. His turn now in the family" -- The l-word -- Joy and heartache -- Chart your own course -- No turning back -- Great expectations -- Part VI. 43 -- Mr. President -- Shock and awe -- Mourning in America -- Prelude to war -- A broader battle -- 41 and 43 -- Part VII. The decider -- To whom much is given -- Regards from President Bush -- The last campaign -- Brother from another mother -- The first Jewish president -- The toughest decision -- Last days -- Part VIII. The last Republicans -- It wasn't me -- Trumped -- What about George? -- Epilogue.