Life is just one roll of the dice after another. The decisions and mistakes we make shape our life's trajectory, and sometimes lead us through surprising twists and turns along the way. In his memoir "Fortunate One," Gary Holmes recounts his experiences growing up in the 1950's, from humble beginnings in Nantucket to his rise as head of communications for a key government agency in Washington, D.C. His reflections on the social and political landscape of the 1960's, 70's and 80's are told with incisive wit and honesty.

A natural storyteller, Holmes takes us through the emotional transitions of his teens, college years, and young adulthood, a journey that many Baby Boomers will recognize. He recounts the circuitous career path that eventually leads him to Congress, the Reagan/Bush presidential re-election campaign, and the- White House. It's a 'childhood dream come true. But Holmes soon learns a valuable lesson: sometimes the thing you want more than anything else in the world can make you miserable. But it can also open the door to something remarkable.

Holmes describes his experiences as a journalist and speechwriter in the political realm with refreshing candor. and humor, allowing the reader a ''behind the scenes" look at the conduct -- and misconduct -- of lawmakers and the elite.