Buckley skillfully weaves historical fact and fiction together in this novel.

Sometimes this is so seamless that we have difficulty distinguishing one from the other. This novel gives the reader an opportunity to look back at the Camelot years of the Kennedy administration and to compare JFK and Buckley. Two men had a similar background: both were wealthy, both were educated at expensive private schools and both dedicated their lives to public service. It also gives the read- er an opportunity to compare JFK and Castro and their administrations.

1. Take a close look at the way Buckley describes JFK. In light of recent revelations about him, do you feel that this is an accurate portrayal? Is it a fair one? Why or why not?

2. Buckley's portrayal of Castro is interesting. How would you describe Castro, and why?

3. Women often play a very minor role in Buckley's...