A Different Kind of Power: A Memoir

A memoir by Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and the world's youngest female head of government at the time of her appointment, as well as only the second to give birth while in office. Ardern grew up as the daughter of a police officer in small-town New Zealand. She became the 40th Prime Minister at age thirty-seven and gained global recognition for her empathetic approach to leadership. Her response to the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks—which led to swift gun control legislation—exemplified her leadership style. During her tenure, she guided New Zealand through a volcanic eruption, a biosecurity breach, and a global pandemic, while also advancing policies on climate change, child poverty reduction, and international trade agreements. She balanced these responsibilities while raising her first child publicly. This memoir covers her rise to power, her political achievements, and her decision to step down during her sixth year as Prime Minister. Ardern reflects on her personal experiences and self-doubt, presenting her leadership approach as one centered on compassion and empathy rather than authoritarian strength.