This biography investigates the complex political evolution of Bob Hawke, examining how his early career as a union leader and his ideological commitments shaped his trajectory toward becoming a prominent Australian political figure. Blanche d'Alpuget utilizes her background as a journalist and novelist to construct a psychological profile of Hawke, drawing on his public record and personal history to analyze his influence on the Australian Labor Party and his international advocacy. The text explores the tension between his public persona as a folk hero and the private challenges that defined his rise to power.

Critics and readers often note the author's ability to blend political reporting with psychological depth, providing a nuanced view of a polarizing figure. The text is frequently cited for its detailed look at the intersection of personal conviction and national policy in mid-20th century Australia.