About
James W. Graham's latest book is Where the Moon Stands Still: Revealing the Cosmic Genius of Ohio's Indigenous Earthworks. Graham worked in journalism, government and public affairs for more than 30 years. His previous book, Victura: the Kennedys, a Sailboat, and the Sea, was featured in the New York Times and other national media, and was called “exciting, heartbreaking and fascinating” by the Chicago Book Review, which placed it on its best books of 2014 list. Victura was a Chapter-A-Day selection of Wisconsin Public Radio, where it was read over 10 days on 28 stations. Graham has also written for Time and HuffPost.
Graham was a senior advisor to statewide elected officials in Illinois, including former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar, and has been a public affairs consultant to not-for-profit organizations, economic development interests, corporations and a national-brand health care retailer. He lives in Northfield, Illinois, with his wife, Linda. Their son Spencer, lives in Philadelphia.
Featured Work
Victura: the Kennedys, a Sailboat, and the Sea
To truly understand the dynamics and magic of the Kennedy family, one must understand their passion for sailing and the sea. Many families sail together, but the Kennedys' relationship with Victura, the 25-foot sloop purchased in 1932, stands apart. Throughout their brief lives, Joe Jr., Jack, and Bobby spent many hours racing Victura. Lack of effort by one of his sons in a race could infuriate Joseph P. Kennedy, and Joe Jr. and Jack ranked among the best collegiate sailors in New England. Likewise Eunice emerged as a gifted sailor and fierce competitor, the equal of any of her brothers. The Kennedys believed that Jack's experience sailing Victura helped him survive the sinking of his PT boat during World War II. In the 1950s, glossy Life magazine photos of Jack and Jackie on Victura's bow helped define the winning Kennedy brand. Jack doodled sketches of the Victura in Oval Office meetings. This true tale of one small sailboat is an invaluable contribution to our understanding of the great story of the Kennedys.
Other Works
Awards and Recognition
- Chicago Book Review, Best Books of 2014
- Wisconsin Public Radio, "Chapter A Day" selection read over 10 days on 28 stations, August 2014
