
Robin Pogrebin and Kate Kelly
An in-depth investigation into Brett Kavanaugh's life, the sexual misconduct allegations against him, and the tumultuous Supreme Court confirmation process.
Brett Kavanaugh's nickname in high school was 'Bart O’Kavanaugh,' a pseudonym used in Mark Judge's book.
Section 1
7 Sections
In the quiet suburbs of Maryland, a boy grows up surrounded by the steady rhythms of family, faith, and education. His early years are marked by the steady influence of parents who value justice and integrity, a mother who sharpens her legal arguments at the dinner table, and a father who instills a passion for sports.
He enters a Jesuit preparatory school, an institution steeped in tradition and discipline, where the motto 'men for others' is not just words but a call to action. The school’s sprawling campus, with its colonial architecture and manicured lawns, becomes a stage for the boy's transformation. Here, the structure is strict: uniforms, prayers before every class, and a code of conduct that enforces respect and order.
The boy quickly finds himself embraced by the varsity football team, a group whose influence extends beyond the field. Sports are more than a pastime; they are a currency of respect and belonging. The camaraderie forged in the heat of competition spills over into weekend parties, where the challenges of adolescence are met with youthful bravado. Stories of keg parties, late-night escapades, and whispered jokes about girls paint a picture of a culture both intoxicating and fraught with unspoken codes.
Despite the revelry, the boy remains a diligent student, consistently ranking near the top of his class. His academic success is not accidental but the product of a disciplined work ethic nurtured at home and reinforced by the school's demanding curriculum.
But the social environment is not without its shadows. The culture of entitlement among some students, the hazing rituals, and the casual misogyny reflect a world where power dynamics are often unchallenged. The boy witnesses and participates in this complex dance, navigating friendships and rivalries that will leave lasting impressions.
As graduation approaches, the boy prepares to leave this world behind and step into the broader challenges of college life. The lessons learned — of discipline, loyalty, and ambition — form the bedrock on which his future will be built.
From this foundation, we move forward to explore the next chapter: the transition from adolescence to adulthood and the profound impact of memory, trauma, and courage in revealing hidden truths.
7 more insights available in app
Unlock all 7 sections, 8 insights, full audio, and interactive mind map in the SnapBooks app.
A deep dive into the personal, political, and cultural upheaval that changed America’s judicial landscape forever.
Read articleA powerful exploration of trauma, memory, and the bravery that sparked a national conversation.
Read article
Edward Klein

Jan Matti Dollbaum, Morvan Lallouet, Ben Noble

Steve Richards

Amy Chozick