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Bibi: My Story
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
In Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu’s ”compelling” (The Economist) and“substantive” (The Guardian) autobiography, the newly reelected prime minister of Israel tells the story of his family, his path to leadership, and his unceasing commitment to defending his country and securing its future.
From their earliest days, Bibi and his close-knit brothers, Yoni and Iddo, were instilled with purpose. Born in the wake of the Holocaust at the dawn of Israel’s independence and raised in a family with a prominent Zionist history, they understood that the Jewish state was a hard-won and still precarious gift. All three studied in American high schools—where they learned to appreciate the United States—before returning to their cherished homeland.
The brothers joined an elite special forces outfit of the Israeli Defense Forces known as “the Unit.” At twenty-two, Bibi was wounded while leading his team in the rescue of hostages from a hijacked plane. Four years later, in 1976, Yoni was killed in Entebbe, Uganda, while leading his men in one of the most daring hostage-rescue missions in modern times. Yoni became a legend; Bibi felt he would never recover from his grief. Yet, inspired by Yoni’s legacy and guided by the wisdom of his visionary historian father, Bibi thrust himself into the international struggle against terrorism, ultimately becoming the longest-serving prime minister in Israel’s history—an honor he further cemented by winning reelection in 2022.
In this memoir Bibi weaves together his gripping personal story with the dramatic history of Israel and the Jewish people. Through a host of vivid anecdotes, he narrates his own evolution from soldier to statesman, while providing a unique perspective on leadership, the fraught geopolitics of the Middle East, and his successful efforts to liberate Israel’s economy, which helped turn it into a global powerhouse of technological innovation.
Netanyahu gives colorful, detailed, and revealing accounts of his often turbulent relationships and negotiations with Presidents Clinton, Obama, and Trump. With eye-opening candor, he delves into the back channels of high diplomacy—including his struggle against the radical forces that threaten Israel and the world at large, and the decisive events that led to Israel’s groundbreaking 2020 peace agreements with four Arab states.
Offering an unflinching account of a life, a family, and a nation, Netanyahu writes from the heart and embraces controversy head-on. Steely and funny, high-tempo and full of verve, this autobiography will stand as a defining testament to the value of political conviction and personal courage.
In Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu’s ”compelling” (The Economist) and“substantive” (The Guardian) autobiography, the newly reelected prime minister of Israel tells the story of his family, his path to leadership, and his unceasing commitment to defending his country and securing its future.
From their earliest days, Bibi and his close-knit brothers, Yoni and Iddo, were instilled with purpose. Born in the wake of the Holocaust at the dawn of Israel’s independence and raised in a family with a prominent Zionist history, they understood that the Jewish state was a hard-won and still precarious gift. All three studied in American high schools—where they learned to appreciate the United States—before returning to their cherished homeland.
The brothers joined an elite special forces outfit of the Israeli Defense Forces known as “the Unit.” At twenty-two, Bibi was wounded while leading his team in the rescue of hostages from a hijacked plane. Four years later, in 1976, Yoni was killed in Entebbe, Uganda, while leading his men in one of the most daring hostage-rescue missions in modern times. Yoni became a legend; Bibi felt he would never recover from his grief. Yet, inspired by Yoni’s legacy and guided by the wisdom of his visionary historian father, Bibi thrust himself into the international struggle against terrorism, ultimately becoming the longest-serving prime minister in Israel’s history—an honor he further cemented by winning reelection in 2022.
In this memoir Bibi weaves together his gripping personal story with the dramatic history of Israel and the Jewish people. Through a host of vivid anecdotes, he narrates his own evolution from soldier to statesman, while providing a unique perspective on leadership, the fraught geopolitics of the Middle East, and his successful efforts to liberate Israel’s economy, which helped turn it into a global powerhouse of technological innovation.
Netanyahu gives colorful, detailed, and revealing accounts of his often turbulent relationships and negotiations with Presidents Clinton, Obama, and Trump. With eye-opening candor, he delves into the back channels of high diplomacy—including his struggle against the radical forces that threaten Israel and the world at large, and the decisive events that led to Israel’s groundbreaking 2020 peace agreements with four Arab states.
Offering an unflinching account of a life, a family, and a nation, Netanyahu writes from the heart and embraces controversy head-on. Steely and funny, high-tempo and full of verve, this autobiography will stand as a defining testament to the value of political conviction and personal courage.
733 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2022
990 people are currently reading
2014 people want to read
About the author
Benjamin Netanyahu
10 books134 followersBenjamin "Bibi" Netanyahu is the ninth and current Prime Minister of Israel, serving since March 2009. Netanyahu also serves as the current Chairman of the Likud Party, as a Knesset member, as the Health Minister of Israel, as the Pensioner Affairs Minister of Israel and as the Economic Strategy Minister of Israel.
Netanyahu is the first (and, to date, only) Israeli prime minister born after the State of Israel's foundation. Netanyahu joined the Israeli Defense Forces In 1967 where he served as a commander in the elite Sayeret Matkal commando unit, taking part in many missions including the hostages rescue mission from the hijacked Sabena Flight 572 in 1972. He fought in the Yom Kippur War in 1973 and achieved the rank of captain before being discharged. Netanyahu served as the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations from 1984 to 1988, member of the Likud Party, and was Prime Minister from June 1996 to July 1999. Netanyahu was Foreign Minister (2002–2003) and Finance Minister (2003–August 2005) in Ariel Sharon's governments, but he departed over disagreements regarding the Gaza Disengagement Plan. He retook the Likud leadership on 20 December 2005. In the 2006 election, Likud did poorly, winning twelve seats. In December 2006, Netanyahu became the official Opposition Leader in the Knesset and Chairman of the Likud Party. In August 2007, he retained the Likud leadership by beating Moshe Feiglin in party elections. Following the 10 February 2009 parliamentary election, in which Likud placed second and right-wing parties won a majority, Netanyahu formed a coalition government. He is the brother of Israeli Special Forces commander Yonatan Netanyahu, who died during a hostage rescue mission, and Iddo Netanyahu, an Israeli author and playwright.
Netanyahu is the first (and, to date, only) Israeli prime minister born after the State of Israel's foundation. Netanyahu joined the Israeli Defense Forces In 1967 where he served as a commander in the elite Sayeret Matkal commando unit, taking part in many missions including the hostages rescue mission from the hijacked Sabena Flight 572 in 1972. He fought in the Yom Kippur War in 1973 and achieved the rank of captain before being discharged. Netanyahu served as the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations from 1984 to 1988, member of the Likud Party, and was Prime Minister from June 1996 to July 1999. Netanyahu was Foreign Minister (2002–2003) and Finance Minister (2003–August 2005) in Ariel Sharon's governments, but he departed over disagreements regarding the Gaza Disengagement Plan. He retook the Likud leadership on 20 December 2005. In the 2006 election, Likud did poorly, winning twelve seats. In December 2006, Netanyahu became the official Opposition Leader in the Knesset and Chairman of the Likud Party. In August 2007, he retained the Likud leadership by beating Moshe Feiglin in party elections. Following the 10 February 2009 parliamentary election, in which Likud placed second and right-wing parties won a majority, Netanyahu formed a coalition government. He is the brother of Israeli Special Forces commander Yonatan Netanyahu, who died during a hostage rescue mission, and Iddo Netanyahu, an Israeli author and playwright.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 317 reviews
October 31, 2023
War criminal. Mass Murderer. You are disgusting.
November 29, 2022
I thought this was a great book. Before writing this I read a few reviews by various press organizations to frame my review. The only organization that even raised the Palestinian conflict in terms of an “occupation” was the Washington Post, as expected.
The history that Bibi discusses about himself and his family and their intersection with the State of Israel is fascinating. His grandfather and father were intimately involved with forming the Jewish state. But sadly, their names are rarely noted in this light.
I was not aware of Bibi’s actions in his early days in government to reform Israel’s economy from semi socialist to capitalist. This was really interesting. All of his arguments and comments about the changes he made work very well within the context of the capitalist system. Not much different that what Lee Kuan Yew accomplished in Singapore.
But the most interesting part of the book are his discussions about policy and diplomacy - in his quest to protect the future of Israel. He provided detailed policy considerations for why, for example, he spoke to the US Congress against the JCPOA that was being negotiated by Obama with Iran. And he also provided lots of details about his negotiations with Obama with regard to the Palestinian conflict. As always the consummate diplomat, he was very respectful of the differences he shared with Obama on policy.
I learned that not only did Obama purposefully fail to veto UN 2334, he also was responsible for the diplomacy that occurred in back channels to get Egypt, New Zealand and Ukraine to put the resolution to the floor of the UN. Obama also attempted, but failed because of Russia, to pass a binding UN resolution calling on Israel to withdraw to the 1967 borders and make East Jerusalem the capital of a new Palestinian state. How fitting for Russia to block a UN resolution that sought to legitimize the propaganda initially started by Russia about Palestinian oppression.
Bibi also spoke about John Kerry and his actions in December 2016 to convince Israeli politicians that no peace agreements can be reached with Arab counties until the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was resolved. Just a few years later, the Abraham Accords proved John Kerry was wrong.
The history that Bibi discusses about himself and his family and their intersection with the State of Israel is fascinating. His grandfather and father were intimately involved with forming the Jewish state. But sadly, their names are rarely noted in this light.
I was not aware of Bibi’s actions in his early days in government to reform Israel’s economy from semi socialist to capitalist. This was really interesting. All of his arguments and comments about the changes he made work very well within the context of the capitalist system. Not much different that what Lee Kuan Yew accomplished in Singapore.
But the most interesting part of the book are his discussions about policy and diplomacy - in his quest to protect the future of Israel. He provided detailed policy considerations for why, for example, he spoke to the US Congress against the JCPOA that was being negotiated by Obama with Iran. And he also provided lots of details about his negotiations with Obama with regard to the Palestinian conflict. As always the consummate diplomat, he was very respectful of the differences he shared with Obama on policy.
I learned that not only did Obama purposefully fail to veto UN 2334, he also was responsible for the diplomacy that occurred in back channels to get Egypt, New Zealand and Ukraine to put the resolution to the floor of the UN. Obama also attempted, but failed because of Russia, to pass a binding UN resolution calling on Israel to withdraw to the 1967 borders and make East Jerusalem the capital of a new Palestinian state. How fitting for Russia to block a UN resolution that sought to legitimize the propaganda initially started by Russia about Palestinian oppression.
Bibi also spoke about John Kerry and his actions in December 2016 to convince Israeli politicians that no peace agreements can be reached with Arab counties until the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was resolved. Just a few years later, the Abraham Accords proved John Kerry was wrong.
October 31, 2025
The missing piece for recent Middle East issues…
Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel’s longest serving Prime Minister as well as the youngest who served. Over his life’s span, he’s experienced some of the most historically significant events in the last 75 years; many addressed in this formidable tome.
Bibi is a skilled writer. Emotions, drama, technical, political - it’s all there and none of it is over the top. I was most impressed with his discussions about Clinton, Bush, Obama and Tump. After reading Kushner’s account of the Abraham Accord, Bibi’s accounting added the much need Israeli perspective. His information on Middle East relationships and the subterfuge by high ranking members of various countries is fascinating.
If for no reason other than historical education, this is a book that should be read by everyone. Nothing is canceled or woke but the importance of Israel on the world stage and especially to America is clearly visible. “Bibi: My Story” might be his autobiography thus far but it’s our collective history, well written and deserving of an huge audience📚
Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel’s longest serving Prime Minister as well as the youngest who served. Over his life’s span, he’s experienced some of the most historically significant events in the last 75 years; many addressed in this formidable tome.
Bibi is a skilled writer. Emotions, drama, technical, political - it’s all there and none of it is over the top. I was most impressed with his discussions about Clinton, Bush, Obama and Tump. After reading Kushner’s account of the Abraham Accord, Bibi’s accounting added the much need Israeli perspective. His information on Middle East relationships and the subterfuge by high ranking members of various countries is fascinating.
If for no reason other than historical education, this is a book that should be read by everyone. Nothing is canceled or woke but the importance of Israel on the world stage and especially to America is clearly visible. “Bibi: My Story” might be his autobiography thus far but it’s our collective history, well written and deserving of an huge audience📚
January 29, 2024
The criminal makes it abundantly clear he only understands the language of power and force.
I’m smart, I’m handsome, I’m an effective communicator, I’m a brave soldier, I’m a war hero, I’m a talented diplomat, I’m a successful businessman, I have opened the eyes of the west to the immorality of terrorism, I’ve teach Western leaders how terrorism harm their interests, I’ve discovered how terrorism is just an authoritarian assault against western democracies, I’ve dictated to Schultz State Department how to solve a kidnapping issue in Lebanon, I’ve, against all the odds, predicted the demise of the USSR and the fall of Berlin Wall, my father is the one who made America made the UN create Israël, my grandfather is a better Zionist than Herzel himself, all the history the world know is incorrect or false but I know all what really happened in history, Zionism is the best ideology in the world, Likude is the best embodiment of Zionism I’m the best of the Likud, the Israeli left doesn’t understand peace, I do, the Israeli press doesn’t understand peace, I do, all American presidents don’t understand peace, I do, the Palestinians don’t want peace, I do, the Arabs don’t want peace, I do, the Israeli left doesn’t understand democracy, I do, the Israeli press doesn’t understand democracy I do, all Israelis parties don’t understand democracy I do, the world doesn’t understand Iran, I do, the world misunderstood Rabin I didn’t, the Labor party misunderstood Rabin I didn’t, Rabin’s wife misunderstood Rabin I didn’t, I reformed Israel economy and lift it out third world underdevelopment, I gave Israel a stature among the nations, I angered Clinton,Ignored Bush, defied Obama, played Trump and currently manipulating Biden.
I’m smart, I’m handsome, I’m an effective communicator, I’m a brave soldier, I’m a war hero, I’m a talented diplomat, I’m a successful businessman, I have opened the eyes of the west to the immorality of terrorism, I’ve teach Western leaders how terrorism harm their interests, I’ve discovered how terrorism is just an authoritarian assault against western democracies, I’ve dictated to Schultz State Department how to solve a kidnapping issue in Lebanon, I’ve, against all the odds, predicted the demise of the USSR and the fall of Berlin Wall, my father is the one who made America made the UN create Israël, my grandfather is a better Zionist than Herzel himself, all the history the world know is incorrect or false but I know all what really happened in history, Zionism is the best ideology in the world, Likude is the best embodiment of Zionism I’m the best of the Likud, the Israeli left doesn’t understand peace, I do, the Israeli press doesn’t understand peace, I do, all American presidents don’t understand peace, I do, the Palestinians don’t want peace, I do, the Arabs don’t want peace, I do, the Israeli left doesn’t understand democracy, I do, the Israeli press doesn’t understand democracy I do, all Israelis parties don’t understand democracy I do, the world doesn’t understand Iran, I do, the world misunderstood Rabin I didn’t, the Labor party misunderstood Rabin I didn’t, Rabin’s wife misunderstood Rabin I didn’t, I reformed Israel economy and lift it out third world underdevelopment, I gave Israel a stature among the nations, I angered Clinton,Ignored Bush, defied Obama, played Trump and currently manipulating Biden.
January 13, 2024
The audacity of the 21st century Hitler full of lies lies and lies. The most evil man alive. 🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮
October 13, 2023
This is a fantastic book, both in its historic and current affairs of the Israeli nation and the life (up to 2022) of its brilliant Prime Minister.
Netanyahu clearly is a modern Winston Churchill and his genius to think succinctly and outside of the box has saved Israel time and time again. I’m sure Israel is grateful that during this tragic time (the Hamas attacks just a few days ago), they have Netanyahu as their leader.
Netanyahu reads the first two chapters and the last chapter of the audiobook.
I highly recommend everyone read this.
Ages: 16+
Content Considerations: a handful of mild swear words.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
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Netanyahu clearly is a modern Winston Churchill and his genius to think succinctly and outside of the box has saved Israel time and time again. I’m sure Israel is grateful that during this tragic time (the Hamas attacks just a few days ago), they have Netanyahu as their leader.
Netanyahu reads the first two chapters and the last chapter of the audiobook.
I highly recommend everyone read this.
Ages: 16+
Content Considerations: a handful of mild swear words.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! And be sure to check out my bio page to learn a little about me and the Picture Book/Chapter Book Calendars I sell on Etsy!
March 14, 2023
I lack the expertise to judge the book on the accuracy of its portrayal of Israel, its history, or its current policies.
Instead, I read the book to learn about the man. What did I learn?
First, he's not a great writer. Although writing a book of this length is an achievement, the writing is plodding, despite the exciting things he's lived through. The tone throughout is the same: a man detailing one event after another. The one emotion that he does express is his love for his brother. Other than that, you almost get the feeling he couldn't wait to get through the chapter to hurry and get to another, where he might have something to say, except he doesn't.
What does he want to say? Is it any more than a slogan? A political sound bite? How can someone obviously so intelligent, educated, and experienced be so adamantly unreflective?
Instead, I read the book to learn about the man. What did I learn?
First, he's not a great writer. Although writing a book of this length is an achievement, the writing is plodding, despite the exciting things he's lived through. The tone throughout is the same: a man detailing one event after another. The one emotion that he does express is his love for his brother. Other than that, you almost get the feeling he couldn't wait to get through the chapter to hurry and get to another, where he might have something to say, except he doesn't.
What does he want to say? Is it any more than a slogan? A political sound bite? How can someone obviously so intelligent, educated, and experienced be so adamantly unreflective?
January 2, 2024
I thought this was a non-fiction. Must be fiction because the history portion was completely incorrect. I’d recommend reading “Palestine: A Four Thousand Year History” By Nur-eldeen Masalha to learn about the actual history of the land instead.
February 22, 2024
Self-righteous piece narcissistic propaganda. Hard to read it without throwing up a little in your mouth.
January 29, 2023
Full of lies and written well.
Like him.
Like him.
October 25, 2022
“Bibi: My Story” is a very good autobiography, perfect for anyone interested in Mr. Netanyahu and/or the state of Israel. Its pages are filled, not only with Mr. Netanyahu’s love of country and family (many of whom participated in Israel’s creation and/or defense), but with the reasons and bases for that love and admiration which, in turn, describe much about Israel and its history, politics, geography, culture, military, and foreign policy concerns.
It's a long book, some 655 pages (not counting notes, index, photos, etc.). But it’s very well written in a style that’s clear, concise, and direct. (Indeed, Mr. Netanyahu repeatedly mentions and apparently admires Strunk and White’s “Elements of Style.”)
It includes, among other topics, Mr. Netanyahu’s upbringing and education in both Israel and the United States, his own military service with a branch of Israel’s special forces, the Sayeret Maktal, his entry into business and then Israel’s diplomatic service in Washington during the Reagan administration, and, of course, his various terms as Prime Minister and leader of the opposition. While any autobiographer can be expected to put the facts about his or her life in the best possible light, what emerges—independent of what Mr. Netanyahu writes about himself—is a picture of a highly competent man of many, varied talents and someone who has much to teach about leadership.
As we get to know Mr. Netanyahu, we also learn of his dealings with and/or opinions about a wide variety of Israeli, American, and foreign politicians including Golda Meir, Shimon Perez, Itzhak Rabin, Yasser Arafat, Ronald Reagan, George Schultz, Bill Clinton, Barrack Obama, Donald Trump, and many others. And we learn his views about issues such as Israel’s right to exist (and the denial of that right by its enemies), its relations with Arab neighbors, global terrorism, anti-Israeli propaganda, the press, Israel’s internal politics, and its agreements and disagreements with the United States.
All in all, I found “Bibi: My Story” to be an instructive, interesting, and enjoyable work well worth the time,
It's a long book, some 655 pages (not counting notes, index, photos, etc.). But it’s very well written in a style that’s clear, concise, and direct. (Indeed, Mr. Netanyahu repeatedly mentions and apparently admires Strunk and White’s “Elements of Style.”)
It includes, among other topics, Mr. Netanyahu’s upbringing and education in both Israel and the United States, his own military service with a branch of Israel’s special forces, the Sayeret Maktal, his entry into business and then Israel’s diplomatic service in Washington during the Reagan administration, and, of course, his various terms as Prime Minister and leader of the opposition. While any autobiographer can be expected to put the facts about his or her life in the best possible light, what emerges—independent of what Mr. Netanyahu writes about himself—is a picture of a highly competent man of many, varied talents and someone who has much to teach about leadership.
As we get to know Mr. Netanyahu, we also learn of his dealings with and/or opinions about a wide variety of Israeli, American, and foreign politicians including Golda Meir, Shimon Perez, Itzhak Rabin, Yasser Arafat, Ronald Reagan, George Schultz, Bill Clinton, Barrack Obama, Donald Trump, and many others. And we learn his views about issues such as Israel’s right to exist (and the denial of that right by its enemies), its relations with Arab neighbors, global terrorism, anti-Israeli propaganda, the press, Israel’s internal politics, and its agreements and disagreements with the United States.
All in all, I found “Bibi: My Story” to be an instructive, interesting, and enjoyable work well worth the time,
November 14, 2022
More fiction from Bibi
June 29, 2024
4.25 stars
February 7, 2023
Great book. Some of the political parts certainly interested me less, however it was great to read the stories and get a better understanding of the nation of Israel.
November 17, 2022
For those interested in Israeli history over the last few decades there is likely no greater source then the irreverent leader of Likud Benjamin Netanyahu. By far the most interesting parts of the book is the diplomacy that took place with other important leaders.
There is a lot of self congratulation in the book in transforming Israel's economy from command to a market driven start-up nation. At its core, Netanyahu's two main foreign policy tenets are stopping Iran from getting nuclear weapons and countering the Palestinian narrative that does not accept Jews as native to Israel. Netanyahu would see his role as securing Israel's future.
There is a lot of self congratulation in the book in transforming Israel's economy from command to a market driven start-up nation. At its core, Netanyahu's two main foreign policy tenets are stopping Iran from getting nuclear weapons and countering the Palestinian narrative that does not accept Jews as native to Israel. Netanyahu would see his role as securing Israel's future.
April 4, 2023
This is among the best Autobiography, i've ever read.
A great;
Soldier,
Diplomat,
Communicator,
Historian,
Lobbyist,
Reformer.
I liked the most Chapter 29, which Bibi show what the steps he took to transform the Socialistic poor economy of Israel to liberal economy between 1996 to 1999.
Well as it's said, 'making your bed', is step towards reforms. He started with his own table.
My very first reform as prime minister involved a bread-and-butter issue—literally.
When I entered the cabinet room for the new government’s first meeting, I was astonished to see that the cabinet table was laden with a sumptuous breakfast: omelets, cheese, various breads, tomatoes, cucumbers, jams, butter, and cakes and cookies galore.
The cabinet ministers were already busy munching away, passing dishes to one another. It reminded me of the Shabbat Breakfast Club in the synagogue in Hull, Massachusetts.
“What’s all this?” I asked the cabinet secretary in disbelief.
“Prime Minister, it’s been like this for several years now,” he answered.
“No longer,” I said.
Page 222.
Reducing government size, Privatization, liberalized foreign currency (funny that, then in Israel, one had to seek Banks approval to make Dollar subscription to a Newspaper), support technological growth and making more alliance with other powers apart from US i.e China and Russia(whom According to this account, has been so supportive of Israel in many affairs which even US couldn't, like JCPOA). This was a backbone of modern Israel economy.
He may be ruthless, taking account of what Israel is doing towards Palestine, but he is die-hard Israel nationalist. To him, Israel interest is the first Priority.
Beautiful thing with this book is the tone of Bibi in orating his story. He articulate so much insightful and serious subjects; diplomacy, international politics, economy, history but in a very fascinating and subtly humourous way. Well, he a hell of a story teller!
This is an important addition on International affairs.
A great;
Soldier,
Diplomat,
Communicator,
Historian,
Lobbyist,
Reformer.
I liked the most Chapter 29, which Bibi show what the steps he took to transform the Socialistic poor economy of Israel to liberal economy between 1996 to 1999.
Well as it's said, 'making your bed', is step towards reforms. He started with his own table.
My very first reform as prime minister involved a bread-and-butter issue—literally.
When I entered the cabinet room for the new government’s first meeting, I was astonished to see that the cabinet table was laden with a sumptuous breakfast: omelets, cheese, various breads, tomatoes, cucumbers, jams, butter, and cakes and cookies galore.
The cabinet ministers were already busy munching away, passing dishes to one another. It reminded me of the Shabbat Breakfast Club in the synagogue in Hull, Massachusetts.
“What’s all this?” I asked the cabinet secretary in disbelief.
“Prime Minister, it’s been like this for several years now,” he answered.
“No longer,” I said.
Page 222.
Reducing government size, Privatization, liberalized foreign currency (funny that, then in Israel, one had to seek Banks approval to make Dollar subscription to a Newspaper), support technological growth and making more alliance with other powers apart from US i.e China and Russia(whom According to this account, has been so supportive of Israel in many affairs which even US couldn't, like JCPOA). This was a backbone of modern Israel economy.
He may be ruthless, taking account of what Israel is doing towards Palestine, but he is die-hard Israel nationalist. To him, Israel interest is the first Priority.
Beautiful thing with this book is the tone of Bibi in orating his story. He articulate so much insightful and serious subjects; diplomacy, international politics, economy, history but in a very fascinating and subtly humourous way. Well, he a hell of a story teller!
This is an important addition on International affairs.
January 1, 2023
I hoped to finish this book by the end of the year and made it in the nick of time. What a masterpiece. Despite its length, it held my attention throughout. Bibi is a fantastic writer and communicator.
There were several things that stood out to me from the book. First, I am shocked at the level of influence Bibi has had on the evolution and development of modern Israel. His efforts to reform the economy of the country towards capitalism have been hugely successful. His understanding of which ends are the significant levers for the country and deft maneuvering to achieve the prosperity and safety of Israel is nothing short of remarkable. His largely thankless commitment to Israel is astounding. My respect for Bibi as a leader and strategic thinker grew immensely. I thought at several points, “If the Bible were written today, Bibi would be a central character!”
Second, his relationship with many US presidents is fascinating. I appreciate his candor regarding differences of opinion (most starkly with Obama, whose geopolitical perspective he summarizes well), but his respect for each leader is obvious. He speaks generously of all.
Last, the history of Israel is extremely fascinating to me. As a Christian, I feel deeply connected to the Jewish people and Israel. This book provided a detailed, moving, firsthand account of the last 40 years of Israel’s history. I would love to visit the beautiful country again soon.
4.8/5.0
There were several things that stood out to me from the book. First, I am shocked at the level of influence Bibi has had on the evolution and development of modern Israel. His efforts to reform the economy of the country towards capitalism have been hugely successful. His understanding of which ends are the significant levers for the country and deft maneuvering to achieve the prosperity and safety of Israel is nothing short of remarkable. His largely thankless commitment to Israel is astounding. My respect for Bibi as a leader and strategic thinker grew immensely. I thought at several points, “If the Bible were written today, Bibi would be a central character!”
Second, his relationship with many US presidents is fascinating. I appreciate his candor regarding differences of opinion (most starkly with Obama, whose geopolitical perspective he summarizes well), but his respect for each leader is obvious. He speaks generously of all.
Last, the history of Israel is extremely fascinating to me. As a Christian, I feel deeply connected to the Jewish people and Israel. This book provided a detailed, moving, firsthand account of the last 40 years of Israel’s history. I would love to visit the beautiful country again soon.
4.8/5.0
May 16, 2023
This is a work of make believe. While the details of the book about where he was and the positions he held are likely all accurate the views he espouses are a work of fiction. From his reiteration of the quote “a land without a people for a people without a land” to accusing Iran of wanting to wipe it off the map. It consists of endless falsehoods and lies making it infuriating to read and unfortunately it’s propagandistic merits will convince a few ignorant readers.
January 27, 2023
An illuminating look at one of the most pivotal leaders in the history of Israel.
December 24, 2022
A Memoir with a Unique Historical Perspective
I thought I knew a lot about the history of Israel, but this book helped me realize how little I really know. Written by one who has lived the nation's history, readers will be privy to the behind-the-scenes machinations of the country of Israel, from its founding to the present. Politicians and celebrities notoriously love to write glowing memoirs of how wonderful they are and to extoll the virtues of their gilded lives. While I am sure this book also is spun to show the author in the best light, it is not just a recitation of all the great things he has done. Netanyahu writes like a historian who brings a unique perspective to the story you thought you knew.
I thought I knew a lot about the history of Israel, but this book helped me realize how little I really know. Written by one who has lived the nation's history, readers will be privy to the behind-the-scenes machinations of the country of Israel, from its founding to the present. Politicians and celebrities notoriously love to write glowing memoirs of how wonderful they are and to extoll the virtues of their gilded lives. While I am sure this book also is spun to show the author in the best light, it is not just a recitation of all the great things he has done. Netanyahu writes like a historian who brings a unique perspective to the story you thought you knew.
December 30, 2023
I’ll give this two stars for the explanations of Israel’s historic foundations — extremely interesting. But overall, especially in light of current events, it has strengthened my view of taking whatever either side says with a very huge grain of salt. I was not much of a fan of the man before I read this book; that opinion really hasn’t changed much now that I’ve finished it.
I now want to read Obama’s perspectives on his dealings with Netanyahu. Somehow, I get the feeling that the truth is somewhere in the middle here.
I now want to read Obama’s perspectives on his dealings with Netanyahu. Somehow, I get the feeling that the truth is somewhere in the middle here.
January 28, 2023
A Real Leader
It's not possible to write "My Story" without the use of personal pronouns. Although the author did so, he was diligent in giving credit where warranted. A most readable book by an unapologetic defender of his people and their right to exist.
This is an amazing and ongoing story that will be reviewed by probably more detractors than admirers. Political, of course. But most things are these days.
It's not possible to write "My Story" without the use of personal pronouns. Although the author did so, he was diligent in giving credit where warranted. A most readable book by an unapologetic defender of his people and their right to exist.
This is an amazing and ongoing story that will be reviewed by probably more detractors than admirers. Political, of course. But most things are these days.
October 30, 2025
Child murderer 🇵🇸 The blood of 20,000 children will follow you to your grave.
June 16, 2023
From the opening chapters to Bibi: My Story, I did not like the title. This is neither a simple nor sterile personal political biography. Netanyahu’s account is foundationally a love story that spans thousands of years. I’m not talking about men and women, as women come and go throughout the lives of Bibi and his brothers (after all, he is on his third marriage!). Netanyahu remains tight lipped about courtships, marriages, divorces, and how births expanded their family, merely reporting in brief rational paragraphs that they occurred.
The passion of Netanyahu’s memoir, his family, his life, his career, is love for the Jewish people and the land of Israel, in a word, Zionism. This is not a love born in Mr. Netanyahu’s adolescence. It goes back to the mists of the Abrahamic covenant, the exodus from Egyptian slavery, the conquest of pagan Canaanite tribes descendant from Noah, and the Davidic Kingdom, whose star waves on the Israeli flag today over the city of Jerusalem, which was first made capital under King David. Zionism extended through Assyrian exile, Babylonian captivity, Greek persecution, and Roman wars. It never died through the Arabian conquest of the middle east and was not extinguished through the evictions and massacres of the Middle Ages. Noticeable, however, in Mr. Netanyahu’s writing of Zionism is that he does not include meditation on the Israelite God. The Bible is referenced as a historical document that testifies to the link between the people and the land, and evangelical Christians are counted among the strong supporters of the nation of Israel, but Mr. Netanyahu’s argument is purely secular and as such does not discuss the existence, worship or sovereignty of the God of Israel. Is this because he is a secular person? Or because he is writing a political biography and prefers to keep his personal religious convictions to himself to avoid alienating supporters?
Starting in Russia, Netanyahu’s direct progenitors crisscross the globe with notable stops in the United States, Great Britain, throughout Europe, and the city that is the focus of their aspirations, Jerusalem. Into this family, Yonathan, Benjamin, and Iddo are born. The boys grow up with their father’s career taking them between Israel and the United States, into young men and serve in the armed forces for Israel, when personal tragedy strikes the family. This tragedy directs Mr. Netanyahu to assume leadership of an international counterterrorism foundation.
As the autobiography moves into his young adult career, the narration moves from the personal passion which drives Netanyahu to the practical steps he takes to enter Israeli society to promote and protect his beloved country. Eventually, as most know, Netanyahu enters politics, rises through his party, and becomes the longest serving Prime Minister in Israel’s short contemporary history. In the later years, the narrative comes to focus on political crises, leaning toward accounting his successes in economy, security, and diplomacy. Netanyahu also discusses his mistakes or failures as lessons learned and refers back to them to guide future decision points. Personal reflections late in the book are largely lamentations of the difficulties of political attacks against his (third) wife, Sara, and their children. There are plenty of domestic (and international, though those don’t burden the family as much) political attacks to burden Mr. Netanyahu, which are bluntly stated, protested, and defended with some bitterness, especially toward those Israelis who used to be friends or allies. Mr. Netanyahu’s willingness to engage these battles, however depleting they are to him and his family, is what has made him a successful gladiator in the messy arena of Israeli politics.
Netanyahu’s documentation of the Israeli – American alliance is particularly fascinating. For all his domestic political success, it may be international diplomacy where Mr. Netanyahu is at his most brilliant. Presenting a strong defense for his country and its interests before the United Nations, US Presidential Administrations and the US Congress, while trying to engage hostile parties with a magnanimous refusal to resort to ad hominem attacks display his political sensibilities admirably.
Though each US Presidential Administration from President Truman on is discussed, the climax of the narrative comes in Chapter 54, fittingly titled “Never Again,” where Mr. Netanyahu gives his 2016 speech before the United States Congress in opposition to the Obama Administration’s disastrous Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran. The Prime Minister provides excerpts in the text, but I recommend watching the entire speech for yourself. In this link, Mr. Netanyahu enters the chamber at 22:32, and begins speaking at 26:49 after a brief appearance on screen of his wife, Sara.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pOs9...
From this 2016 highlight, Netanyahu goes on to discuss the Trump and Biden administrations. Chapter 63: COVID 2019-2012, where many have strong reservations about his decisions to pursue full vaccination herd immunity, was revelatory of Mr. Netanyahu’s personal explanation for his actions -- and his conviction of their success.
I also want to draw readers’ attention to the excellent endpaper maps. The book opens with a map of *Israel and the Middle East* on the front pastedown. The back endpaper features *Arab Countries with Peace Agreements with Israel.* I referred to both while reading and found they not only provide geo-political detail, but also aide in centering the narrative from the perspective of tiny Israel to the world at large. The Index was also helpful in making connections that spanned that work. These aides, as well as the two glossy sections of photographs, makes the physical hardbound book preferable to an e-book, though at 700+ pages, the hardcover is a hefty lift.
Reading Bibi: My Story, however inadequately named, gives an engaging overview of the man, the history of Israel, the domestic Israeli political arena, the American-Israeli alliance and the love of Zion shared by Jewish people around the world. Highly recommended.
The passion of Netanyahu’s memoir, his family, his life, his career, is love for the Jewish people and the land of Israel, in a word, Zionism. This is not a love born in Mr. Netanyahu’s adolescence. It goes back to the mists of the Abrahamic covenant, the exodus from Egyptian slavery, the conquest of pagan Canaanite tribes descendant from Noah, and the Davidic Kingdom, whose star waves on the Israeli flag today over the city of Jerusalem, which was first made capital under King David. Zionism extended through Assyrian exile, Babylonian captivity, Greek persecution, and Roman wars. It never died through the Arabian conquest of the middle east and was not extinguished through the evictions and massacres of the Middle Ages. Noticeable, however, in Mr. Netanyahu’s writing of Zionism is that he does not include meditation on the Israelite God. The Bible is referenced as a historical document that testifies to the link between the people and the land, and evangelical Christians are counted among the strong supporters of the nation of Israel, but Mr. Netanyahu’s argument is purely secular and as such does not discuss the existence, worship or sovereignty of the God of Israel. Is this because he is a secular person? Or because he is writing a political biography and prefers to keep his personal religious convictions to himself to avoid alienating supporters?
Starting in Russia, Netanyahu’s direct progenitors crisscross the globe with notable stops in the United States, Great Britain, throughout Europe, and the city that is the focus of their aspirations, Jerusalem. Into this family, Yonathan, Benjamin, and Iddo are born. The boys grow up with their father’s career taking them between Israel and the United States, into young men and serve in the armed forces for Israel, when personal tragedy strikes the family. This tragedy directs Mr. Netanyahu to assume leadership of an international counterterrorism foundation.
As the autobiography moves into his young adult career, the narration moves from the personal passion which drives Netanyahu to the practical steps he takes to enter Israeli society to promote and protect his beloved country. Eventually, as most know, Netanyahu enters politics, rises through his party, and becomes the longest serving Prime Minister in Israel’s short contemporary history. In the later years, the narrative comes to focus on political crises, leaning toward accounting his successes in economy, security, and diplomacy. Netanyahu also discusses his mistakes or failures as lessons learned and refers back to them to guide future decision points. Personal reflections late in the book are largely lamentations of the difficulties of political attacks against his (third) wife, Sara, and their children. There are plenty of domestic (and international, though those don’t burden the family as much) political attacks to burden Mr. Netanyahu, which are bluntly stated, protested, and defended with some bitterness, especially toward those Israelis who used to be friends or allies. Mr. Netanyahu’s willingness to engage these battles, however depleting they are to him and his family, is what has made him a successful gladiator in the messy arena of Israeli politics.
Netanyahu’s documentation of the Israeli – American alliance is particularly fascinating. For all his domestic political success, it may be international diplomacy where Mr. Netanyahu is at his most brilliant. Presenting a strong defense for his country and its interests before the United Nations, US Presidential Administrations and the US Congress, while trying to engage hostile parties with a magnanimous refusal to resort to ad hominem attacks display his political sensibilities admirably.
Though each US Presidential Administration from President Truman on is discussed, the climax of the narrative comes in Chapter 54, fittingly titled “Never Again,” where Mr. Netanyahu gives his 2016 speech before the United States Congress in opposition to the Obama Administration’s disastrous Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran. The Prime Minister provides excerpts in the text, but I recommend watching the entire speech for yourself. In this link, Mr. Netanyahu enters the chamber at 22:32, and begins speaking at 26:49 after a brief appearance on screen of his wife, Sara.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pOs9...
From this 2016 highlight, Netanyahu goes on to discuss the Trump and Biden administrations. Chapter 63: COVID 2019-2012, where many have strong reservations about his decisions to pursue full vaccination herd immunity, was revelatory of Mr. Netanyahu’s personal explanation for his actions -- and his conviction of their success.
I also want to draw readers’ attention to the excellent endpaper maps. The book opens with a map of *Israel and the Middle East* on the front pastedown. The back endpaper features *Arab Countries with Peace Agreements with Israel.* I referred to both while reading and found they not only provide geo-political detail, but also aide in centering the narrative from the perspective of tiny Israel to the world at large. The Index was also helpful in making connections that spanned that work. These aides, as well as the two glossy sections of photographs, makes the physical hardbound book preferable to an e-book, though at 700+ pages, the hardcover is a hefty lift.
Reading Bibi: My Story, however inadequately named, gives an engaging overview of the man, the history of Israel, the domestic Israeli political arena, the American-Israeli alliance and the love of Zion shared by Jewish people around the world. Highly recommended.
March 7, 2023
“Bibi, My Story” certainly requires a commitment of time given that it is 655 pages not including over 60 pages of citations and an index at the end, but it is well worth it. I learned so much about the history of Israel, terrorism in the Middle East, Bibi’s amazing family story, his politics, the perspectives of our political leaders both in public and behind the scenes, and how the media treats conservatives in Israel. Hint: it’s very much the same as the media treats conservative leaders here. No surprise.
Bibi Netanyahu is the longest serving Prime Minister of Israel (15 years) and is the first Prime Minister to be born in Israel after the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948. He served as Prime Minister from 1996-1999 (during the Clinton administration) and from 2009-2021 (during the Obama, Trump and Biden administrations, and has served as Prime Minister again since December 2022. This book includes very interesting anecdotes of Bibi’s personal relationships and political negotiations with each of these presidents, as well as his negotiations with key players for the Palestinians and the Arab states. He is candid about the mistakes he made in his tenure as Prime Minister as well as his successes.
Netanyahu lived in the US at times as both a child and an adult, so he has an excellent understanding of our politics. His father was a historian and was a professor at Cornell University for part of his career. Bibi graduated from MIT (in two years - wow) with a degree in architecture after serving for 5 years in the Israeli Defense Forces. He also earned a Master’s degree from the MIT Sloan School of Management and was concurrently working on his doctorate in political science when he returned to Israel immediately his brother Yoni died in the Israeli raid on Entebbe. Bibi Netanyahu is extremely bright, very driven, witty and he knows how to use the power of public opinion in both Israel and the US to get things done on behalf of Israel.
There is absolutely no greater champion for Israel than Bibi Netanyahu. I liked him before reading his book and I like him MUCH more after having read it.
Bibi Netanyahu is the longest serving Prime Minister of Israel (15 years) and is the first Prime Minister to be born in Israel after the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948. He served as Prime Minister from 1996-1999 (during the Clinton administration) and from 2009-2021 (during the Obama, Trump and Biden administrations, and has served as Prime Minister again since December 2022. This book includes very interesting anecdotes of Bibi’s personal relationships and political negotiations with each of these presidents, as well as his negotiations with key players for the Palestinians and the Arab states. He is candid about the mistakes he made in his tenure as Prime Minister as well as his successes.
Netanyahu lived in the US at times as both a child and an adult, so he has an excellent understanding of our politics. His father was a historian and was a professor at Cornell University for part of his career. Bibi graduated from MIT (in two years - wow) with a degree in architecture after serving for 5 years in the Israeli Defense Forces. He also earned a Master’s degree from the MIT Sloan School of Management and was concurrently working on his doctorate in political science when he returned to Israel immediately his brother Yoni died in the Israeli raid on Entebbe. Bibi Netanyahu is extremely bright, very driven, witty and he knows how to use the power of public opinion in both Israel and the US to get things done on behalf of Israel.
There is absolutely no greater champion for Israel than Bibi Netanyahu. I liked him before reading his book and I like him MUCH more after having read it.
November 7, 2022
The Story of a Visionary Leader
Benjamin Netanyahu is the longest serving prime minister of the modern state of Israel. His autobiography helps explain why.
Netanyahu has a dream for his nation, a dream he never lost sight of despite opposition from within his country and from other nations, many of which were dedicated to destroying Israel.
To read this autobiography is to read the history of Israel and its growth into one of the strongest nations in the world.
As he tells his life story, it is clear he never lost his focus on his dreams for his country. This despite the opposition he faced within his country, the biases of a hostile media, the constant and ultimately unproven accusations of corruption. All designed to take him down.
He dealt with international threats from terrorists and nations who wanted to see Israel gone. He stood up to bullying from the United Nations and other so-called friendly nations. This included powerful pressure, interference, and broken promises from the United States. At times, it seems the pressure on him to make peace with terrorists despite all the evidence the terrorists did not want peace borders on persecution.
His experiences with various U.S. presidential administrations are insightful. That alone makes this a book well worth reading.
Through it all, he pursued peace with innovation, diligence, integrity, and determination while he kept to his goal of keeping Israel growing, strong, and secure.
This well written autobiography reads quickly for a book of over 650 pages. It fits the cliché of being a page turner.
Netanyahu’s story is also a microcosm of the world over the last 75 years. He is honest about the mistakes he made, and he gives credit to those who helped him achieve his goals. The story is not about one man. It is the story of a leader with a dream and the team he inspired, encouraged, and led to achieve that dream.
Benjamin Netanyahu is the longest serving prime minister of the modern state of Israel. His autobiography helps explain why.
Netanyahu has a dream for his nation, a dream he never lost sight of despite opposition from within his country and from other nations, many of which were dedicated to destroying Israel.
To read this autobiography is to read the history of Israel and its growth into one of the strongest nations in the world.
As he tells his life story, it is clear he never lost his focus on his dreams for his country. This despite the opposition he faced within his country, the biases of a hostile media, the constant and ultimately unproven accusations of corruption. All designed to take him down.
He dealt with international threats from terrorists and nations who wanted to see Israel gone. He stood up to bullying from the United Nations and other so-called friendly nations. This included powerful pressure, interference, and broken promises from the United States. At times, it seems the pressure on him to make peace with terrorists despite all the evidence the terrorists did not want peace borders on persecution.
His experiences with various U.S. presidential administrations are insightful. That alone makes this a book well worth reading.
Through it all, he pursued peace with innovation, diligence, integrity, and determination while he kept to his goal of keeping Israel growing, strong, and secure.
This well written autobiography reads quickly for a book of over 650 pages. It fits the cliché of being a page turner.
Netanyahu’s story is also a microcosm of the world over the last 75 years. He is honest about the mistakes he made, and he gives credit to those who helped him achieve his goals. The story is not about one man. It is the story of a leader with a dream and the team he inspired, encouraged, and led to achieve that dream.
April 18, 2024
Run-of-the-mill political memoir. The constant stream of Likud talking points is interrupted on occasion by artless self-aggrandizement.
In a very few instances he rises above dumbed down folksy anecdotes to actually offer some substantive political analysis or insight into politicking. But more often we get a Likud party line just as ahistorical as mainstream discourse on the Arab-Israeli conflict.
I think Netanyahu is worthy of examination, particularly by those opposed to his politics. But autobiography is obviously not the means to achieve that.
In a very few instances he rises above dumbed down folksy anecdotes to actually offer some substantive political analysis or insight into politicking. But more often we get a Likud party line just as ahistorical as mainstream discourse on the Arab-Israeli conflict.
I think Netanyahu is worthy of examination, particularly by those opposed to his politics. But autobiography is obviously not the means to achieve that.
February 19, 2023
This book is an example that there is a book for everyone and this was not the book for me. I listened to the audio book at 2x. If I could have done it faster, I would have. I don’t like non fiction in the first place. This one was too long and could have been two separate books about his life and the history of Israel. I did learn some things and found certain parts engaging, but if you are not i to politics, then this book is not for you.
January 22, 2023
Liked it, but not enough to make it more than a quarter of the way through. Plus, I kept getting interrupted by compulsions to arrange stuffed menageries into ominous tableaus, so that probably didn’t help my focus. He’s a glaringly unreliable narrator in a charming way.
March 1, 2023
This book gives a fascinating firsthand account into much of modern Israel’s history since Netanyahu has been there to see so much of it. It also gave me a new window into US and Israeli relations over the last few decades.
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