Robert Abrams - The Luckiest Guy in the World

Copyright 2021 by Robert Abrams

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available on file.

Cover design by Brian Peterson

Print ISBN: 978-1-5107-5878-0

Ebook ISBN: 978-1-5107-5903-9

Printed in the United States of America

A DVANCE P RAISE

The Luckiest Guy in the World provides a master class for what authentic public service should look like. Bob Abrams, and his vision of public service, is a tonic for our nation and a reminder of the importance of authentic leadership. His central legacy in a lifelong career in public service is the invention of the role of the modern State Attorney General. Under Abramss leadership, the New York AGs Office became a force for change and a model for the nation. Abramss leadership at the National Association of Attorneys General, and the power of his vision and character, spearheaded the impact of multi-state actions. Leaders like Bob Abrams dont come along often.

~Phil Weiser, Attorney General of Colorado; former Dean of the University of Colorado Law School

Robert Abramss absorbing memoir is a fascinating journey through the public life of a remarkable elected official. Abrams created an enduring public law office that has fought tirelessly for the rule of law for all Americans who now live better lives because of its unending pursuit of justice. The voice of Robert Abrams contained in this book should be read and understood by public leaders everywhere.

~James Tierney, Director of Attorney General Clinic at Harvard Law School

In his memoir, Bob Abrams beautifully describes his immigrant roots, his working class neighborhood, and we become totally engaged in the arc that leads him into public life. For those interested in the workings of government, it provides a front row seat to experience some of the most important political events in New York. This is a good read not just because it chronicles the fascinating life of one of New Yorks most accomplished public servants, but because it is the story of someone who never stopped trying to use government to make life better for ordinary people.

~Cesar Perales, former Secretary of State of New York

Here is a story of American politics at its best, democracy in action, told through the real-life experience of Robert Abrams. In one compact, delightful read Abrams takes us from the city streets of the Bronx to the chambers of state government in Albany, to the great halls of Moscow and the storied city of Jerusalem. Here is how one talented, dedicated individual immersed his life in American politics and the legal profession to positively impact all of our lives. READ THIS BOOK!

~Hubert H. Humphrey III, former Attorney General of Minnesota

At a time when people yearn for integrity, compassion, and good judgment in public office, longtime New York Attorney General Bob Abramss story will inspire. His handling of controversies has made Bob Abrams a model of courage for public officials across the country. If Bob Abrams feels hes the luckiest guy the world, I say, the world is truly lucky to have him in it! This book will have a treasured place in my library.

~Janet T. Mills, Governor of Maine

Anyone affiliated with government or politics is fortunate that Bob Abrams has written The Luckiest Guy in the World. It is a blueprint on entering, surviving, and thriving in public service with class and dignity. It is authentic without arrogance, truthful, and revealing. Abramss passion, compassion, and conviction emerge while portraying public service as an honorable profession.

~Keith Wright, former member of the New York State Assembly (Harlem)

This book is a terrific read. Bob Abrams exemplified the best of his generation... Bob stood with the AIDS community and fought tirelessly against discrimination while taking an instructive role in overturning the states and nations sodomy laws... He was part of a group of elected officials who put their commitment to civil rights up front, risking the hateful backlash from our opponents... His unequivocal early support of gay rights will always be an important and indelible part of the LGBTQ movements history... His book serves as a lesson and reminder of how progressives help shape the world for the better.

~Allen Roskoff, Co-Author and Chief Lobbyist of the nations first Gay Rights Bill

Your memoir is full of so much history. Youve been a loyal, dedicated, hard-working public servant who served the people of the Bronx so well for many years. I am grateful and honored to have shared your journey and walked the walk with you. Your hard work, commitment, and fight for Justice made a difference and brought about change and renewal! Bravo! Excellent and inspiringa must-read.

~Father Louis Gigante, St. Athanasius Church, South Bronx

The Luckiest Guy in the World is an inspirational glimpse of a man who is dedicated to doing the right thing for causes and principles that he deeply cares about. I found each chapter fascinating. Among Bob Abramss important contributions to the public good, he displayed extraordinary leadership in bringing the Jewish and the Latter-day Saints communities closer together, respecting each others common humanity. A reflection of his upbringing and life of service, he has a gift for uniting people. He stands with courage and determination whether it is in the world of politics, justice for humanity, faith, or family.

~John R. Taylor, Director of Interfaith Relations, Retired, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

This remarkable book is the story of how a man can co-mingle the joys and responsibilities of marriage and family life with the excitement and challenges of politics. It is also the story of how a political leader can hew unswervingly to an ethical standard yet also make a difference in the world, be a cosmopolitan man yet also affirm his particularist faith community. There are many practical lessons here: great organizational guidelines for administering a public office, how to help the downtrodden without abandoning the entire collective, and how to take the values of beloved parents and carry them through life. Add to all of this Abramss masterful storytelling abilities and sense of humor, including the ability to laugh at himself and you have a great read.

~Blu Greenberg, author of On Women and Judaism: A View from Tradition

Bob Abrams has pursued a more just world. Proudly a public servant, he was unafraid to challenge the status quo while keeping the interests of everyday New Yorkers always front and center. He pioneered the way for State Attorneys General to hold corporations and government agencies accountable, a legacy from which we continue to benefit. Abramss talent for storytelling and his zest for the work shine through every page. If you read the first few pages, you will be propelled to the end.