A journey from housewife to House speaker
Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is set to visit Long Island on Sept. 8 to discuss her new book, “The Art of Power,” as part of an ongoing speaker series hosted by former Congressman Steve Israel, owner of Theodore’s Books in Oyster Bay. The event will be held at the Krasnoff Theater at Long Island University, in Brookville, and will give attendees a chance to hear from one of the most influential figures in American politics.
Pelosi, who served as the first woman speaker for eight years, will delve into her experiences detailed in the book, which traces her journey from housewife to House speaker. The book also highlights her role as a key legislator and a prominent figure during the Trump administration.
Israel, a former member of the House of Representatives who opened Theodore’s Books in 2021, after he retired from Congress, sees the event as a continuation of his efforts to foster bipartisan dialogue and encourage civic engagement.
“I heard Nancy had a book in the works, so I reached out and asked if she would visit Long Island to talk about it. She agreed,” Israel said. “I believe in the power of open discussion, and this event aligns with our mission to explore diverse perspectives.”
Theodore’s Books has hosted a range of speakers, including retired Gen. David Petraeus and other notable figures.
“Our bookstore is making its own contribution to broad bipartisan discussions,” Israel explained. “Yes, we have Nancy Pelosi, who’s a partisan Democrat, but we’re also bringing in Steve Forbes, a very conservative thinker on inflation and the economy.”
Israel said he planned to engage Pelosi in a conversation that transcends partisan politics, focusing instead on the broader themes of leadership and power.
“I don’t want the conversation to get overly partisan,” he said. “I want this to be a history lesson and an exploration of how power is developed and employed, and why and for what reasons. One of the lessons I learned from Nancy Pelosi is to know your why — whether you’re on the left or the right, know why you are in a position of power.”
“The Art of Power” offers readers insights into Pelosi’s strategic maneuvers at significant moments in American history, including her interactions with presidents and her leadership during the Trump administration. It also has Pelosi’s personal reflections on pivotal events, such as the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and the violent attack on her husband, Paul Pelosi, in 2022 in their home in San Francisco.
Israel emphasized that the book offers valuable lessons for people on both ends of the political spectrum.
“Whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat, Nancy Pelosi teaches fascinating lessons about the use of power, and that’s why I thought it would be interesting to bring her here,” he said.
The event is expected to draw a large crowd, and tickets are required. According to the Theodore’s Books website, there are multiple tiers of tickets available, each including a copy of “The Art of Power.” While there will be no book signing at the event, additional copies of the book will be available for purchase.
Doors will open at 3:30 p.m., with the conversation set to begin at 4. The Krasnoff Theater is inside Hillwood Commons at LIU’s Post Campus in Brookville.
Israel said he hoped the event would contribute to a deeper understanding of American politics and the complexities of leadership.
“I want people to walk away with an informed view of recent history in Congress and in Washington,” he said. “This event is part of a series that aims to escape the sound bites and opinions drummed into us on cable news and social media, and instead expose us to a variety of experiences and let us reach informed judgments.”
To purchase tickets for Pelosi’s appearance or to learn more about upcoming events at Theodore’s Books, visit TheodoresBooks.com.
