Hell and Other Destinations: A 21st-Century Memoir

“Richly detailed. . . an intimate portrait of a diplomat.” —New Yorker

From the seven-time New York Times bestselling author and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright—among history's most admired and tireless public servants—a revealing, funny, and inspiring reflection on the challenge of continuing one’s career far beyond the normal age of retirement

In 2001, when Madeleine Albright was leaving office as America’s first female secretary of state, interviewers asked her how she wished to be remembered. “I don’t want to be remembered,” she answered. “I am still here and have much more I intend to do. As difficult as it might seem, I want every stage of my life to be more exciting than the last.”

In that time of transition, the former Secretary considered the possibilities: she could write, teach, travel, give speeches, start a business, fight for democracy, help to empower women, campaign for favored political candidates, spend more time with her grandchildren. Instead of choosing one or two, she decided to do it all. For nearly twenty years, Albright was in constant motion, navigating half a dozen professions, clashing with presidents and prime ministers, learning every day. After leaving the State Department, she blazed her own trail—and gave voice to millions who yearned for respect, regardless of gender, background, or age.

Hell and Other Destinations reveals this remarkable figure at her bluntest, funniest, most intimate, and most serious. It is the tale of our times anchored in lessons for all time, narrated by an extraordinary woman who had a matchless zest for life.

What does a life of purpose look like after leaving one of the most powerful jobs in the world?

• Inspiring Nonfiction: Go behind the scenes as America's first female secretary of state navigates a new chapter, refusing to be “remembered” because she was still here and had much more to do.
• Foreign Policy Insights: Gain a unique perspective on the post-9/11 world, from clashing with presidents and prime ministers to offering shrewd analysis of today's most complex international affairs.
• A Career After Retirement: Discover how Albright tackled her “afterlife” by juggling half a dozen new professions at once—from teaching and writing to starting a business and fighting for democracy.
• Blunt, Funny, and Inspiring: Enjoy the trademark wit and wisdom that made Albright one of the world's most admired public servants, shared with unmatched humor and zest for life.