Editor's Desk
Jon MeachamIn electing presidents we are also choosing stories, and Barack Obama's personal narrative is a crucial element of his campaign. This week, our cover package reconstructs his journey from Barry to Barack and explores what light that transition sheds on his character.





This week
In an economic downturn, cheap is the new cool; we'll show you how to trim the fat from your household budget. Also: Gadgets for the gourmand. A stylish new Volvo. And books that will help explain politics to your kids.





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