"Vesce...manages to pique reader interest through his passionate dedication to historical detail.... he knows how to spin a good historical yarn. Vesce's larger-than-life portrait of Hopkins reminds that there really is some truth to the whole "Greatest Generation...". -Kirkus Reviews
"Beginning with page one of the novel, One Ordinary Man, I recognized the importance of this book... It is not only historically accurate, but it also reveals the author's knowledge of the major players on the world stage, especially Harry Hopkins. I could hear the echoes of my grandfather's voice in the words Steve Vesce put in his mouth and I recognized the familiar tone of the conversations he creates. His descriptions of my grandfather's interactions with world figures as well as family members all ring true... my grandfather came to life for me...a fascinating read from cover to cover." -Dr. June Hopkins, Harry Hopkins's Granddaughter, Professor of History, Emerita
"Fleet, revealing novel of FDR's indispensable deputy fighting the Depression and the Nazis. This brisk, lively novel imagines the world-changing life of Harry L. Hopkins.... crafting fictionalized incidents that honor the historical record. Vesce favors a reportorial approach...with... plenty of canny dialogue... many crisply told moments that breathe life into the historical facts. Vesce's fleet scenecraft captures sharp exchanges... the material... abounds with achievements and surprises." - Booklife Reviews
One Ordinary Man is the critically acclaimed and historically accurate novel about the inspiring, surprising, and remarkable true story of Harry Hopkins—one ordinary man who grew from obscurity to play a leading and pivotal role in helping America overcome the Great Depression, defeat Fascism, and win World War II.
A vibrant, witty, and captivating story, Hopkins's tale is at once, both human and larger than life, and his deep belief and abiding faith in American Democracy provides today's readers with a renewed sense of hope regarding America's current challenges and its resilience. One Ordinary Man is already earning glowing praise for its gripping narrative, emotional depth, and historical accuracy with "I felt like I was in the room," a common comment among readers.
There is no surprise ending in One Ordinary Man. The story itself is the surprise—delivering a steady stream of new discoveries and insights about America, Hopkins's achievements, and America's current challenges.
In an era when conversations about public service, economic recovery, and leadership dominate the public square, One Ordinary Man shines a vital light on the enduring legacy of the commitment, action, and sacrifice of America's "Greatest Generation."
Harry Hopkins. One ordinary man. One extraordinary destiny.
