Gerhardt (constitutional law, Univ. of North Carolina, Chapel Hill; The Power of Precedent) examines 13 presidents who lack historical star power but nonetheless significantly influenced how the U.S. Constitution is applied. In chronologically arranged chapters, including two on Grover Cleveland, the author provides rich behind-the-scenes detail and historical context. Gerhardt documents how federalism vs. state sovereignty, the reaches of presidential power, and the role of Congress are constitutional themes that recur across presidential administrations. The points of view as well as the strengths and weaknesses of each president are explored. The book documents how both the constitution and the presidency have been affected by the way in which lesser-known presidents dealt with economic crises, the challenges of foreign affairs, labor unrest, and disputes over presidential appointments. VERDICT With careful scholarship and deft storytelling, this book successfully illuminates the personalities, compromises, failures, strengths, and influences of the featured leaders. Illustrations, extensive notes, and a helpful appendix round out a timely and accessible book that will appeal to historians, constitutional scholars, and all those interested in the presidency and the evolution of the constitution.-Joan Pedzich, Rochester, NY (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

This work by Gerhardt (constitutional law, Univ. of North Carolina, Chapel Hill) tells the stories of the forgotten presidents such as Martin Van Buren or William Taft, whose contributions to the presidency are often overlooked. The book would be a helpful addition to any library, were this its only purpose. The deeper scholarly argument around which these stories are told, however, makes this book a great addition to library collections. Gerhardt argues that the constitutional design of the presidency "draws its occupants into performing the role of the president and asserting presidential prerogatives, often at the expense of the political support needed to maintain power." This provocative thesis, which upsets some conventional wisdom, particularly regarding 19th-century presidents, is explored through the examples of 13 presidencies, ranging from Van Buren's to Carter's. In each case, Gerhardt underscores the critical dynamics among the president, the Constitution, and historical circumstance. The accessible prose is appropriate for undergraduate and graduate students, scholars, and the general public. It is appropriate for readers studying a variety of subject areas, including the American presidency, public law, and American politics. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readership levels. P. F. Campbell Ashland University