Ben Rhodes is a political commentator, writer, and national security analyst. He was born on November 14, 1977, in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan and is the son of a Jewish mother from New York and an Episcopal father from Texas. Rhodes’ brother, David Rhodes, is a former President of CBS News.
From 2009 to 2017, Rhodes served as deputy national security advisor to President Barack Obama, overseeing the administration’s national security communications, speechwriting, public diplomacy, and global engagement programming. Prior to joining the Obama administration, he worked for former congressman Lee Hamilton from 2002 to 2007 and was the co-author, with Thomas Kean and Lee Hamilton, of Without Precedent: The Inside Story of the 9/11 Commission. Before his career in politics, Rhodes received his BA from Rice University and an MFA from New York University.
In contrast to his career in politics and national security, Rhodes also has a passion for writing. He has written a number of books, primarily in the mystery and suspense genres. However, it is worth noting that his writing style is unique, as he has mentioned his struggles with dyslexia and spelling. Despite these challenges, Rhodes finds joy in writing and the sense of accomplishment it brings him. He also has a specific mission with his writing, as he aims to provide books without vulgar or questionable language, filling a gap in the market for books that encourage good moral behavior and even Christian beliefs.
It is important to clarify that this Ben Rhodes is not to be confused with the Ben Rhodes who served as Obama's security advisor. The author Ben Rhodes has been writing long before the other Ben Rhodes appeared on the scene. He writes with a focus on avoiding adult language and excessive violence, with the exception of his Kip Series. Rhodes’ writing is influenced by his values, including his Christian beliefs and appreciation for family life and parenthood. He writes with a clear purpose, aiming to provide books that align with his values and can be enjoyed by readers looking for clean, engaging stories.