Chapter 4: Getting to Yes Summary and Analysis

On August 18, 2006, Obama arrived in Cape Town, South Africa. He traveled extensively throughout Africa and was treated like a rock star everywhere he went. Over the next two months, in addition to touring Africa, his latest book, "The Audacity of Hope," would be published and he would participate in a national book tour. During that time, Obama would be making his decision as to whether to run for the presidency. On his travels, he was treated like such an icon he began to think he could have an impact on changing the world.

Back from Africa, Senator Harkin asked Obama to keynote the annual steak fry in Iowa. On Meet the Press, he didn't hesitate to tell Tim Russert that he had reversed his position and might run. Obama's presence was in demand more than...