Rough Edges: My Unlikely Road from Welfare to Washington

by James E. Rogan

Book Overview

The Bush Administration's undersecretary of commerce describes his challenges as the illegitimate son of a welfare mother, early fascination with politics and law, rise in government, and... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0060580593
• ISBN13: 9780060580599
• Release Date: July 2004
• Publisher: William Morrow & Company
• Length: 333 Pages
• Weight: 1.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 6.2" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

Wow!!!

As a resident of Burbank, California I have personally been affected by Jim Rogan's outstanding and honest service. This book is a MUST read for all walks of life, rich or poor, black or white, political or non political, conservative or liberal; I was hooked before finishing the inside flap of the book jacket. His mesmerizing life story takes us on a journey of hardship, courage and determination in overcoming obstacles and tragedy, all while maintaining integrity. Surprise! Even white guys struggle to achieve the American dream. As a conservative Republican I praise God that he is on the "right" side. My only regret is that there is no surprise ending--hopefully if it is God's will, he'll be back!!!!

Democrats should read this book (but, sadly, probably won't)

There was probably a time in America where the level of political discourse and thought was fair-minded enough that a person like James Rogan would have been respected by both sides of the political spectrum. Sadly, if those days ever existed, they're long gone (e.g., Farenheit 911 on the Left, Rush Limbaugh on the Right), so I doubt that Mr. Rogan's book will be read by those who don't share his political views (with the notable exception of Willie Brown).That's a shame, because Mr. Rogan's rags-to-riches / 'Horatio Alger' story is a refreshing counter-example to two prep school / Ivy Leaguers battling over who supposedly has the best interest of ordinary Americans in mind and the recent celebration of hyper-privileged spoiled rich brats (e.g., Paris Hilton, et al.) that has polluted popular culture. James Rogan had a hardscrabble upbringing - single mother who was what many of his Republican colleagues would have called a 'welfare queen,' bounced around various relatives, growing up in what was then a rough neighborhood, and hanging out with a motley crew of characters that wouldn't be welcomed in the thousands of dollars a plate or seat fundraising event for either party. Inspired to go to school and pull himself up by the bootstraps by none other than Bill Clinton (yes, the ex-President), he went to a state school with the highest representation of working class/poor students among major universities, UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles).Ironically -- or appropriately (depending on what political movement you believe best represents the interests and aspirations of those who hover around the lower middle class) -- James Rogan became a conservative Republican congressman who went on to help prosecute Bill Clinton during the impeachment proceedings. The road to that role as a prosecutor was paved with his work in the Los Angeles D.A.'s office prosecuting notorious street gangs like the Bloods and the Crips.The impeachment of Clinton proved to be a phyrric victory for Rogan. His 'success' made him the target of the vast left wing conspiracy (if Bill and Hillary can make paranoid claims without much challenge, I suppose the James Rogans of the world are entitled to as well) and he was voted out of office. [By the way, Rogan's congressional district includes Glendale, CA. I did NOT vote for him (I was living in the East Coast during most of his tenure, and moved here after Rogan was voted out of office.)]I'm NOT a Republican. I did not think that impeaching Clinton was a great idea. But having said all of that, Rogan's story is so interesting, thought-provoking, and (yes this description will be repeated for the umpteenth time) inspirational that people should put down their particular political/policy prejudices and just enjoy this uniquely American biography. I wish people like James Rogan -- of either political party -- were running for President and offering Americans a REAL choice instead of having to choose a President that will be a

Like Saul of Tarsus

Mr. Rogan like Saul of Tarsus, undergoes an remarkable and intriguing transformation into a great American and moral patriot. This story is a must read and remarkable as a contrast to many of the milquetoast characters in current American politics.

Inspiring

This book is just plain inspiring. I hope this is only the beginning for Mr. Rogan.

Very Inspirational

This book offers romance, an inside scoop of large political figures, and most of all -- inspiration. Its a very exciting and interesting read. A living example of "if you think you can, you can." He writes just like he is - simple, humorous and determined.