Scott Badler's BECOMING JFK In Store Event and Book Signing

Join us at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore on Wednesday, September 24 at 7:00 PM when historian Scott Badler comes to the store to share his book Becoming JFK: John F. Kennedy's Early Path to Leadership. Scott will sign copies of his book after the presentation. Play Kennedy trivia and win genuine JFK half-dollars!

Click here to pre-order a copy of Becoming JFK.

John F. Kennedy's name is synonymous with American leadership, charisma, and the promise of a better future. But how did the second son of a wealthy, influential family evolve into the iconic figure who would captivate a nation? Offering new revelations and challenging widely believed myths, Becoming JFK: John F. Kennedy's Early Path to Leadership unravels the untold story of the young man behind the legend, offering a vivid portrait of Jack Kennedy's formative years and his journey to finding his voice, purpose, and resilience.

From the shores of Cape Cod to the halls of Harvard, this compelling work explores Jack's complex relationships with his domineering father, Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., and his golden older brother, Joe Jr., the family's original heir apparent. It is a story of sibling rivalry, family expectations, and a younger son who often found himself overshadowed but refused to be defined by it.

Kennedy researcher Scott Badler weaves a rich tapestry of adventure, privilege, and adversity. With vivid storytelling and meticulous research, he takes readers deep into Jack's battles with chronic illness, his relentless pursuit of love and connection, and his transformative experiences in Europe on the brink of war. Becoming JFK reveals how a young, often reckless Jack began to channel his charm, intellect, and passion for justice into the qualities that would make him a great leader.

At its heart, this book isn't just about Jack's personal evolution—it's a lens into the dynamic, often tumultuous Kennedy family. Joseph Kennedy Sr.'s towering ambition collides with Jack's growing independence, while Joe Jr.'s confidence and success push Jack to forge his own path. Featuring rare photos and vivid details of Jack's global travels, Becoming JFK invites readers to see an intimate side of one of America's most beloved presidents. Perfect for history lovers and Kennedy admirers, this book is a fascinating look at the making of an American icon.

SCOTT BADLER is an accomplished writer, educator, and humorist whose diverse career spans journalism, academia, and authorship. A former newspaper reporter, he has contributed extensively to prestigious publications including The Boston Globe, where his humor pieces earned him widespread acclaim, as well as The Dallas Morning News and The Connecticut Post. He is the author of three insightful and entertaining non-fiction books: What’s So Funny About Looking for a Job?, Oh Brother, and Other Revelations on Family, Relatives, Pets, and Sex, and JFK & the Muckers of Choate. Scott holds a degree from San Francisco State University and a Master’s in Education from Cambridge College. Currently, he resides in the San Francisco Bay Area.

THIS EVENT is free but registration is requested. Registration ends at 6:00 pm on September 24.

BECAUSE SEATING is limited, please register only if you plan to attend.

DUE TO SPACE limitations, we may not be able to accommodate every person at an event, so early registration is encouraged.

WALK-INS will be accommodated only if space allows.

WE ASK that attendees arrive between 6:45 and 7:00 PM for the event.

PLEASE leave your non-support companion animals at home.

OUR shared restrooms are not accessible after 6:30 PM, please plan accordingly.