A Different Kind of Power: A Memoir

Abstract

Jacinda Ardern’s book, A Different Kind of Power: A Memoir, skilfully weaves together the personal and the political. While some reviewers argue that Ardern gives short shrift to her record in government, the book will be an indispensable source for scholars. Ardern’s introspection goes deeper than simply recounting events, or re-litigating policy debates, and can be read as a meditation on the important role of emotion in politics. If Ardern does avoid engaging with criticism of her government’s record it is likely because this would detract from the central purpose of her memoir: to explain how, at the age of 37, she became prime minister in unlikely circumstances, and why it matters.