You've read about historical U.S. figures in school textbooks. Maybe you've even seen a mini-series or movie about some of the leaders of America's past. But right now you're living in the midst of history in the making. You are watching a man with an unlikely story become one of the most important people in American politics today. It doesn't matter whether you've heard him speak, or even whether or not you agree with his politics. The life of Barack Obama is an inspirational story for anyone who has ever felt abandoned, alone, different, or who has wanted to do great things and make a difference in the world. Learn about the life-shaping experiences Barack Obama faced as he: * was raised by a single mom and his grandparents * rose to the top of his class at Harvard law * accepted a faith that gives his life deeper meaning * left a lucrative career in law to work in public service In 1967 Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke out about the state of our country and its leadership, saying, 'We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now.' Barack Obama was only six-years-old when that speech took place, and forty years later he stood in the place where Abraham Lincoln once stood, and announced he was running for President because of what Dr. King called the 'fierce urgency of now.' He recognized a country once again in turmoil and a nation looking for something different---something better. As you read about the life of Barack Obama you'll be encouraged, inspired, and challenged to look at the world around you and see how you can take your own improbable journey to change it.