"Stein presents Nixon as not just a politician and president--in triumph and disgrace, gaining, wielding and losing power--but as a human being, a down-to-earth family man and friend to Ben Stein and his family. Stein presents an argument that Nixon was not only one of the most capable presidents the United States has ever seen, but one who was focused on and manifestly successful in his self-described role as peacemaker in the world. And on the journey of getting to know real Nixon, Stein reveals the real Ben Stein: his parents, upbringing, and coming of age in the 50's and 60's, his work in the White House, and eventual move to California and evolution as a writer"-- Book jacket.