The book starts with an autobiographical account of Ryan's childhood in Janesville, Wisconsin, up to the point when he found his alcoholic father's dead body when he was sixteen.[1][2][3] He reveals that he used government assistance to survive during that period.[4]
He goes on to explain that this tragedy motivated him to work harder and eventually run for office.[1] He then explains how he handles congressional bills and politics in general, including his experience as a vice presidential nominee in 2012.[1] He stresses the idea that civil society, not government, is what leads to job creation and growth.[3]
Ryan goes on to argue that Republicans should stop preaching to the choir and start reaching out to new voters like Hispanics and African Americans.[5]
