In "When the President Calls," Simon W. Bowmaker offers an unprecedented glimpse into the high-stakes world of economic policymaking at the zenith of American power. Through intimate interviews with thirty-five economic advisors spanning the administrations from Nixon to Trump, Bowmaker peels back the curtain on the dynamics of decision-making within the Oval Office. The reader is transported into a realm where the pressure is immense, the decisions are monumental, and the potential for error is ever-present. This book not only chronicles the economic strategies that shaped the modern United States but also humanizes the policymakers behind them, offering a nuanced understanding of the difficult tradeoffs and moral dilemmas they faced. Beyond mere policy analysis, Bowmaker's work provides a deep dive into the psychological and personal challenges confronting those who have advised the most powerful leaders in the free world. From the Reagan tax cuts to the financial crisis of 2008, and the unique challenges of each administration, "When the President Calls" sheds light on the complexity of governing, the diversity of opinions and styles among the presidents, and the intricate interplay between politics and economics. This compelling narrative not only enriches our understanding of American economic history but also serves as an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the art and science of policymaking at the highest levels.