Every Day Is Extra | John Kerry

Every Day Is Extra is a book by John Kerry.

Every Day Is Extra

Every Day Is Extra is a memoir by John Kerry, former U.S. Secretary of State, senator, and 2004 Democratic presidential nominee. Published in 2018, the book provides a deeply personal account of his life, from his childhood in a diplomatic family to his service in the Vietnam War, his decades in politics, and his diplomatic efforts on issues like climate change and the Iran nuclear deal.

Kerry reflects on his experiences, the challenges of leadership, and the lessons he learned along the way. The title, Every Day Is Extra, comes from his perspective as a Vietnam War veteran, emphasizing the idea that life is a gift and every day should be valued. The book is both a historical account and an introspective narrative, shedding light on major political events of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Every Day Is Extra – A Memoir by John Kerry

Published in 2018, Every Day Is Extra is an in-depth and candid memoir by John Kerry*, who served as U.S. Secretary of State (2013–2017), a five-term senator, and was the Democratic nominee for president in 2004. The book provides a detailed reflection on his life, career, and the political events that shaped modern America.

Themes & Key Topics

1. Early Life & Military Service

Kerry was born into a diplomatic family and grew up in a politically aware environment. The book delves into his privileged upbringing, his education at Yale University, and his transformation after serving in the Vietnam War as a naval officer. His wartime experiences deeply influenced his political career, leading him to become an outspoken critic of the war.

2. Entry into Politics

Kerry entered politics in the 1970s, later becoming a Massachusetts senator (1985–2013). He played a key role in various issues, including foreign relations, environmental policies, and government accountability.

3. 2004 Presidential Campaign

One of the defining moments of Kerry’s career was his presidential run against George W. Bush. He reflects on the challenges of the campaign, the controversial Swift Boat Veterans for Truth attacks, and the lessons he learned from the loss.

4. Secretary of State Years (2013–2017)

As Secretary of State under Barack Obama, Kerry was central to several historic diplomatic achievements, including:

The Iran Nuclear Deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action)
The Paris Climate Agreement
Efforts to broker peace in the Middle East
Managing the Russia-Ukraine conflict after Crimea’s annexation

5. Reflections on Leadership & Public Service

The memoir also provides personal insights into American politics, diplomacy, and leadership, highlighting the polarization of U.S. politics and the struggle to enact change. Kerry emphasizes his belief in public service, bipartisanship, and the urgent need for climate action.

Why Read This Book?

– A firsthand account of major political and global events from a key insider.
– A personal and honest reflection on war, politics, and leadership.
– Insights into the challenges of diplomacy and how global decisions are made.
– An inspiring message about resilience and purpose—why “every day is extra” for those who serve.

This memoir is ideal for history buffs, political enthusiasts, and anyone interested in leadership and international relations.

A Note in Book

Every Day Is Extra is not just a statement of fact; it’s an attitude about life. It is an expression that summarizes how a bunch of the guys I served with in Vietnam felt about coming home alive. It is the recognition of a gift and a mystery. It is a philosophy lived by people who could have died on any given day but didn’t when far too many good men did. It is an expression of gratitude for survival where others did not make it. It is a pledge accepting responsibility to live a life of purpose. And it is the recognition that those of us who survived when so many others didn’t had better live our extra days in ways that keep faith with the memory of brothers whose days were cut tragically short. Finally, “every day is extra” means living with the liberating truth of knowing there are worse things than losing an argument or even an election—the worst thing of all would be to waste the gift of an extra day by sitting on the sidelines indifferent to a problem. This book is the story of my journey trying to keep faith with the gift of my extra days.