Hugo Portisch was there wherever things were happening in the second half of the 20th century. Not only as one of Austria's leading journalists, but as a personal friend of an amazing number of important international politicians. And what he didn't experience first hand he researched and documented in his important television series about 20th century Austria. That in it self would be reason enough to read this memoir. On top of all that, he is a very good writer and makes the history come alive. ( )