Ho Chi Minh: A Life Hardcover – Illustrated, 4 Dec. 2000

The size of this book may appear daunting at first, but the easy style of writing and the exacting detail of the research made it one of the best books I have had occasion to read. Mr. Duiker provides us with meticulous detail on the life of this enigimatic figure, I am amazed that so much information on a life can be gleaned at such a distance in time and from so many countries. Never did I feel lost or ever loose track of the salient character in the twists and turns of the history of Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh's persistence in his ulimate goal, the independence of Vietnam always at the forefront of his actions, his dealings with the major players on the international scene, his unique travels, so well documented, and the authors interpretations of Ho Chi Minh's actions kept to a minimum, because of the detail in which his work was described. One very small critisim I would have liked a few more dates especially the years of events in the last part of the book when events moved very quickly. I came away from Ho Chi Minh with great admiration of his patience, tolerance and vigilance, qualities of which I suspect his biographer also pocesses.

This book provides a detailed look at one of the most interesting leaders of the modern era. Before picking it up I had no idea just how significant Vietnam has been in modern history and the huge part Ho Chi Minh had to play in it. Compared with other leaders of the same period, Ho Chi Minh is not what you expect him to be. His insight and understanding of human politics and ability to forsee events as they would eventually unfold is remarkable. The warmth and respect of those who met him was also a great surprise and his personal charisma is a re-occurring theme throughout. As far as wise men are concerned, this biography left the same impression on me as Nelson Mandela's 'Long Walk to Freedom' and has many interesting parallels. Under different circumstances Ho Chi Minh may have become a more widely celebrated figure in World History.

A forensic and fascinating account of one of history's most mercurial leaders.

This book it's a masterpiece. The history of Ho Chi Minh is just so well documented and written in this book which I find so beautiful. The way Duiker writes is just the way I like it. Straight to the point and really easy to read, not fuss around. Furthermore whenever some of the facts are unclear, these are specified in the notes and he doesn't try to give any point of view or personal opinion. Absolutely love this book

I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who wishes to get beneath the surface of the figure of Ho Chi Minh and discover the character beneath.Read the book, if you can having left your ideology and attitude at the door.

I was hoping for something that gave me an insight into the man, his life and times. An enjoyable read I guess but it's actually very detailed and perfect for researchers who want to know every committee HCM sat on.

I read this book before. It was for me a real eye opener of this amazing beautiful country.

A big, big book, and probably the best on the subject that I have read. It could have done with perhaps a postscript, or at least a little more on Minh's death and the immediate and later aftermath.