How six great americans, all from privileged beginnings, rose to great heights in government and service. Through friendship and sometime competition, these six colleagues were present at the creation (to quote Mr. Acheson), and integral members of American intelligentsia who helped create the world we live in today. A great read-- like a novel, intrigue, mystery, relationships, and challenge-- it is hard to remember that the book describes real events and real men doing great things. The book is inspirational. While I am a big fan of both authors, this book garners the benefits of their collaboration. It's simply great. One of my all time favorites.