His background was unknown. He didn't share the values of his countrymen. He had no experience in national security, foreign policy, business, or economics. His singular qualification for the presidency was an exceptional talent for speaking. How did Barack Obama rise so far, so fast, and with so little scrutiny? In 2008, angry voters wanted to send a message to Washington. What they didn't bargain for was a sweeping expansion of government that puts Washington in charge of every aspect of American life. Here in one entertaining, easy read, is a critical look at the real Barack Obama, from his childhood to his presidency. It's a must-read for even casual followers of history and politics, be they liberal or conservative.