In “Tree Shaker,” Bill Keller writes about a presidential campaign based on hope, change and racial healing. He explores the tension between inspiring, idealistic leadership and the art of political compromise. This is not the United States election of 2008. It is the story of Nelson Mandela and the transformation of South Africa.
“I have witnessed countless election campaigns”
Keller, who traveled with Mandela and covered his historic 1994 run for president says,
“Although the exercise of democracy always moves me, the political campaigns often feel phony. Candidates try to avoid controversial positions. Slick television ads take the place of real debate. Most voters don’t even bother to show up and cast their ballot. South Africa’s first free election, by comparison, was thrilling. ... I often felt that the entire frustrated history of black South Africa was exploding before my eyes. With its striking layout, bright graphics and photographs on almost every page, Keller’s biography of Mandela vibrates with the feeling of history come alive.
