Bob Carr: a Self-Made Man

At last, a penetrating and unbiased account of what makes Bob Carr tick—and where his driving ambition might lead.

The son of a train driver from Sydney's Matraville, Bob Carr is far from a reluctant leader. From the age of 15, when he joined the Australian Labor Party, Carr has determinedly manoeuvred and groomed himself for political success—which has so far culminated in his record reign as NSW Premier.

In this probing biography, West and Morris examine how this consummate politician's strength of will and masterful tactics have allowed him to triumph over his humble beginnings as well as his political opponents on both sides of the fence. Throwing light on his cunning use of the media and the choices he has been forced to make—professionally and privately—Carr is shown to be the ultimate self-made man.

Bob Carr: A Self-made Man uncovers previously undisclosed and controversial Labor Party backroom dealings. It reveals details of the Premier's personal experience of the tragedy of heroin addiction; his extraordinary political nous; his relationship with his wife; the friendships he left behind during his rise to power as well as his complex relationships with key Labor players such as Paul Keating, Laurie Brereton and Graham Richardson.

If you thought you knew Bob Carr, Bob Carr: A Self-made Man will make you think again.