Hillary Rodham Clinton's autobiographical Living History does exactly what an autobiography is supposed to do. Keeping in mind that this book is not a substitute for history itself but merely the memoirs of the 42nd First Lady, Living History becomes a fascinating read marked by well-mannered eloquence and genuine emotion. This is not another feeble attempt to salvage Bill Clinton's reputation; this is the story about a woman of achievement; a story of an independent, strong-willed individual whose courage, strength, and intellect is truly admirable. This is Hillary's story.

The reader learns, in depth, that Senator Clinton is an intellectual, a voracious reader, a policy expert, a strong advocate for the poor, a guardian of children, a clever politician, an outstanding American citizen, a committed mother, a dedicated wife, and a never-say-die woman who seeks power without apology. That which may be new to the reader, however, is...