This is a column collection, or as one colleague called it, "history in real time," recounting my perspective on the highs and lows of this presidency from an African-American perspective. More than simply a column collection, the book has a substantial introduction that frames the [Barack] Obama presidency, explores the way Obama was treated by the political establishment and also how this first black president treated "his" people. In the epilogue, I use numbers to tell the story of African-American gains and losses during this presidency.

I am addicted to the printed word, and my idea of a good time is a good book.

Sometimes, I repeat myself, and that was a second elimination [of Barack Obama]. I worked with a team, including a great editor who, as the project came together, suggested other additions and eliminations. It was a process.

Indeed, as soon as he took office, Senator Mitch McConnell announced that his top priority was to deny President [Barack] Obama a second term.

[Barack Obama] intended, I think, to say that he took Trayvon's [ Martin] death somewhat personally.

Bernie Sanders just seems to not have the personality to engage with people at the grassroots level.

If past behavior is any indication, Donald Trump's behavior would not be acceptable.