ARLINGTON, Va., July 14, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Iris Burnett's new book Schlepper! is a wildly humorous semi-autobiographical tale of life on the road and wherever else it takes you in Presidential politics. Kitty Kelly, author of the forthcoming book, The Family: The Real Story Behind the Bush Dynasty, says it is, "The ultimate fix for political junkies. Schlep this book out of the bookstore and find out what REALLY goes on in a Presidential campaign." Former First Daughter Susan Ford Bales says, "It is poignant and revealing and brings back great memories of the campaign trail." NY Times bestselling author David Fisher hails the book as, "The Nanny Diaries of Washington life. While reading this book I found myself trying to match her characters to real politicians. If you're fascinated by politics, or just like to laugh, you'll love this book."
Schlepper! tells the story of Sadie Alsofrom, who longed to be in the White House, but had absolutely no political skills or experience. What she did have was far more important-a lifetime of living with a family that taught her determination, exuberance, and her most potent weapon: "chutzpah." Throughout the book we follow this political novice through the many bumps and turns of a Presidential campaign as she adheres to the old lesson: when life throws you a lemon, make chicken soup. But will this recipe take her to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? Will she learn about life and love midst the chaos of campaigning? Guided always by the voice and often the presence of "Lekish", her large colorful family, Sadie's true-to-life adventures take the reader into the fascinating world of Presidential politics.
"I wish Sadie had worked for me when I was a candidate for Vice President-- or maybe she did," said Geraldine Ferraro. "Sadie is the type of person whose approach to life would be the envy of any candidate, or any staffer in a campaign."
Schlepper!, an engaging tale with a truckload of humor, is guaranteed to keep you amused. Burnett weaves fiction with true-life stories from her campaign experiences. "What sets this book apart from most political books is that it explains why people are drawn to political campaigns -- they are a lot of fun," said Burnett. "Schlepper! is true but fictionalized like Primary Colors, it involves family like My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and it is a humorous personal account like Bridget Jones Diary." With over thirty years in politics and a lifetime of being a gutsy Jewish woman with a razor sharp wit, Burnett is in her element in this unforgettable novel. Quintessential political reporter Jack Germond writes, "The story of Sadie Alsofrom's adventures in politics is often hilarious and sometimes touching. Most important, the description of life as a political operative has an authenticity that could only come from someone like Iris Burnett who has been there, done that."
About the Author
Iris Burnett is the first and only woman to have been Director of Security for a National Political Convention. With experience in politics, government, academia and the private sector, she has played key roles in eight Presidential campaigns, been an advisor to two Presidents, and was communication strategist for countless elected officials. A resident of Arlington, Virginia, and New York City, she is married to photojournalist David Burnett. She has two adult children and a big, colorful, extended Jewish family.
Schlepper ! * By Iris Burnett
A Mostly True Tale of Presidential Politics
Trade Paperback; $22.99; 372 pages; 1-4134-4799-6
* Cloth Hardback; $32.99; 372 pages; 1-4134-4800-3
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