"A discerning examination of what all of us can learn from some of our most effective leaders who have held--and wielded--ultimate power at the highest level." --Jon Meacham

David O. Stewart (author of George Washington: The Political Rise of America's Founding Father) on the George Washington chapter:
"In How the Best Did It, Talmage Boston demonstrates rare gifts in sifting gold nuggets from the endless gravel beds of known facts about eight leading presidents, then delivering them concisely and persuasively. In his insightful study of George Washington, he finds the core of America's first great leader without exaggerating his talents, and makes him someone from whom we can learn and cherish."

Annette Gordon-Reed (Pulitzer-winning historian and coauthor of Most Blessed of the Patriarchs: Thomas Jefferson and the Empire of the Imagination) on the Thomas Jefferson chapter:
"Thomas Jefferson was one the most effective American leaders of his time, creating a political party that dominated American politics for more than a quarter of a century. With great insight and clear writing, Talmage Boston brings Jefferson to life as the talented leader who shaped the course of early American society."

Ronald C. White Jr. (author of A. Lincoln and three other notable books on Lincoln) on the Abraham Lincoln chapter:
"Talmage Boston offers a wise and wide-ranging understanding of Lincoln's leadership qualities. What makes Boston's chapter distinct is the personal questions that challenge the reader to apply Lincoln's values to their lives today."