Robert F. Kennedy and the Death of American Idealism (Library of American Biography Series)

I happen to personally know Professor Joseph Palermo and I greatly respect the work he does, so this leaves me with a bias when reviewing his books. However, Professor Palermo is a solid writer, and this is one of the best concise biographies on Robert Kennedy that is available. Palermo paints a moving portrait of America's last great leader of the 1960's (and indeed only great generational leader in terms of modern presidential candidates). The book is especially good at recounting Kennedy's political career and the divisions within the Democratic Party and the nation that he attempted to heal. Palermo's previous book-- "In His Own Right"-- is a more complete study of Kennedy's political life, but this is a solid biography in its own right. Highly recommended for those looking for a quick and informative read on a great man.