Churchill: Walking with Destiny

Andrew Roberts

Churchill is an excellent read. It requires a bit of patience at first, but once you get about 50–75 pages in, the book becomes truly engaging and tells the story of a remarkable man.

The early chapters focus on Churchill’s family dynamics and the struggles he faced as a young man, particularly in seeking his father’s approval and his mother’s attention.

Winston Churchill was one of the most extraordinary figures in history. What makes this book so compelling is that it spans his entire life—from birth to death. As the story unfolds, you see how both his triumphs and setbacks prepared him for the most critical moment in history: leading the war effort during World War II, not just for England but for the world.

When we hear the name Churchill, we often think immediately of World War II. Yet his whole life is remarkable. His mother was American, and his father was a politician once on track to become Prime Minister until a political falling out. Churchill’s drive to surpass his father’s accomplishments fueled his own ambition to become Prime Minister.

The book also highlights Churchill’s many talents and quirks. He was an accomplished painter and author, but also a mischievous troublemaker in school. He fought in World War I, volunteered for dangerous missions, and served in the Boer War, where he famously escaped captivity. Every step of his journey seemed aimed at building his reputation as a man of destiny. Even during periods when he was out of politics, he stayed close to the action and maintained enough influence to return as Prime Minister, ultimately guiding England through the war.

Churchill spent considerable time in the United States when he was out of office. His early views of the country were not flattering, shaped by post–World War I tensions and England’s debts to America. Over time, however, his perspective shifted. He came to admire the United States’ remarkable ability to look forward and prosper. Recognizing that England could not defeat Hitler alone, Churchill worked closely with President Roosevelt to secure arms and support. Their partnership grew into a strong bond that proved vital during World War II.

You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy this book. It is the story of a great man—his life, his struggles, and his accomplishments. More than just a biography, it shows how experiences and beliefs shape a leader’s response to crisis and how Churchill’s resilience and vision rallied a nation in its darkest hour.