Drawing on newly discovered archival material and extensive interviews with Truman's own family, friends, and Washington colleagues, McCullough tells the deeply moving story of the seemingly ordinary "man from Missouri" who was perhaps the most courageous president in our history.

Son of the middle border: Blue River country -- Model boy -- Way of the farmer -- Soldier -- Politician: Try, try again -- Senator from Pendergast -- Patriot -- Numbered days -- To the best of my ability: Moon, the stars, and all the planets -- Summer of decision -- Mr. President: Buck stops here -- Turning point -- Heat in the kitchen -- Fighting chance -- Weight of the world: Iron man -- Commander in chief -- Final days -- Back home: Citizen Truman.