By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Gavin Newsom's memoir, *Young Man in a Hurry*, aspires to be a candid exploration of his life and political ascent. However, it often reads more like a calculated prelude to a presidential campaign than a genuine introspection.

Newsom delves into his upbringing, highlighting his struggles with dyslexia and the financial hardships faced by his mother. While these anecdotes aim to humanize him, they are frequently overshadowed by his proximity to the affluent Getty family. This connection, which undeniably facilitated his entry into politics and business, is acknowledged but not critically examined. The tension between his self-portrayal as a self-made entrepreneur and the undeniable advantages afforded by his elite associations remains largely unaddressed.

The memoir's narrative is punctuated with name-dropping encounters with tech luminaries like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk. These episodes, rather than providing insightful reflections, come across as superficial attempts to align himself with innovation and success. For instance, his recollection of Jobs unveiling the first iPhone to him and Google co-founders lacks depth, serving more as a testament to his privileged access than to any substantive engagement with technological advancements.

Newsom's account of his political career, including his early advocacy for same-sex marriage, is presented with a sense of urgency and defiance. Yet, the memoir fails to offer a compelling rationale for his rapid political trajectory. The title itself, *Young Man in a Hurry*, suggests ambition, but the book does little to elucidate the motivations behind this haste. As noted in a review by the *New Statesman*, Newsom's narrative often lacks depth, leaving readers questioning the substance behind his swift rise. ([newstatesman.com](https://www.newstatesman.com/international-politics/2026/03/gavin-newsom-knows-hes-shallow?utm_source=openai))

Personal anecdotes, such as his first date with Jennifer Siebel Newsom, where she likens his sparse apartment to a scene from *American Psycho*, are included, perhaps to add color. However, these stories often feel disconnected from the broader themes of the memoir, contributing little to a deeper understanding of Newsom's character or political philosophy.

In summary, *Young Man in a Hurry* offers glimpses into Gavin Newsom's life and career but ultimately falls short of providing a profound or engaging narrative. The memoir's superficial treatment of critical aspects of his journey leaves readers wanting more depth and authenticity.

Recommendation: Not recommended.

written on: 3/5/2026