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Monday, February 12, 2007 12:00 AM

How Obama learned to be a natural

Today he drips with charisma and inspires fawning admiration from all quarters. But Obama began his journey as a smug young man with little political future.

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  • Sunday, February 11, 2007 09:24 PM

    Barack Obama

    I have just finished "How Obama Learned To Be a Natural," and find I have several reactions. The first was to be angry at Edward McClelland for what seemed like "trashing" Obama. I read on. Next, I thought that he had done some good reporting about a smart, ambitious and complex person who has become a charismatic celebrity in a relatively short period of time. In thinking about McClelland's point of view, I detect a bit of envy. However, he is also admires Obama's ability to be such a quick study. And he does not carry on about his lack of experience for the job, ad naseum. I admit that I am completely in the thrall of this incredibly bright and attractive young man who seems self-reflective and even a bit self-mocking. He is a bright light atop Ego Mountain, because it seems so far that he has the substance to back up his style!

    Kate Madison

    Depoe Bay, Oregon

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