Joe Frank Harris: Personal Reflections On A Public Life (H451/Mrc)

In 1982 a Georgia legislator with, as one journalist put it, the charisma of a bowl of cold grits, came out of nowhere to be elected governor of the state. Serving two terms from 1983 until 1991, Joe Frank Harris compiled a strong record of accomplishment and honesty in government. When he left office, the same journalist who ridiculed Harris’s lack of personal magnetism wrote that he had set a standard of personal integrity that will never be surpassed in state government. In this autobiography, former Governor Harris reflects on his public life, which includes nine consecutive terms in the state legislature as well as his years in the governor’s office. Along the way the reader learns of his childhood in Cartersville, his deeply religious upbringing, his strong work ethic, and his commitment to serving the people of Georgia. Writing in a popular style, Harris describes his initiation into state government, narrates his surprising gubernatorial campaign, and highlights his accomplishments as Georgia’s chief executive. Readers of Southern political and Georgia history will find this a fascinating and well-told story.