Chris Christie’s career arc goes something like this: A so-so lawyer in private practice and a has-been county freeholder moves on to become one of the nation’s most heralded federal prosecutors and now one of the most talked-about and sought-after governors. And, oh yes, let’s not forget he’s now viewed as one of the Republican Party’s top prospects to eventually take back the White House.
Known for his blunt Jersey-style approach to just about everything, Christie is never dull. So you would think a book that recounts how Christie got to where he is would be a riveting read. Think again.
Chris Christie: The Inside Story of His Rise to Power plods a chronological path through Christie’s life story. None of what’s contained in the 320 pages is compelling, and almost none of it is new. The information was gathered largely from newspapers, other previously published material, interviews with Christie, his wife, Mary Pat, other family members, friends, advisers and Senate president Stephen Sweeney.
Despite its title, the book contains almost no inside information and offers no special insight into the real Chris Christie. There are virtually no negative voices throughout the book, and in most cases the authors allow Christie to tell what happened and why. Yes, there are some interesting tidbits, particularly in the chapter about election-night 2009, but those make up a small portion of the story.
This book, written by two journalists for Gannett’s New Jersey newspapers, is the first major attempt to chronicle Christie’s career. Others are sure to follow. The hope is that they’ll be more enlightening.