John Adams by David McCullough Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of John Adams
Book Review: A Breathtaking Biography!
Summary: 5 Stars
First and foremost, I am in no way surprised that this book won the Pulitzer Prize - no other work regarding this subject could possibly be more deserving of such an esteemed award. David McCullough covers every single minute detail, so much so that I truly feel acquainted with not only John and Abigail, but their entire extended family and network of friends as well. My admiration for John Adams was high prior to reading McCullough's stunning biography - now not only do I hold him in high regard, but sincerely feel as if I have a personal connection with him. This biography truly is THAT good. As a lover of American history and an avid reader on the topic in general, I have to say that this book completely took my breath away. Getting through the lengthy biography is certainly making a commitment, but it's highly rewarding. McCullough's book is truly the best homage paid to John Adams to date, and that, given the steadfast commitment made by Mr. and Mrs. Adams to their country, is truly saying more than mere words can express.Book Review: A Class By Itself
Summary: 5 Stars
Mr. McCulloughs' portrait of John Adams so captivated my interest that i have read twenty or more books in the last two years on the same historic period. Thus, i felt it was time to return to Adams and give credit. None of what i have read since compares in the breadth of the landscape created by McCullough. He transported me to the streets of Philadelpia over 200 years ago to the stifling heat, the ruddy streets, the endless hours without the forms of entertainment we have today to pass the time. Where conversation was essential and reading books was a way of maintaining your sanity.
My readings have included personalities more famous and perhaps more interesting in some cases than Adams; Washington, Jefferson, Hamilton, Burr, Jackson, Lincoln, Franklin, for instance. But none of the works I have read held me and educated me as did McCulloughs' Adams. Thank You Mr. McCullough.
Book Review: A Fascinating Portrait
Summary: 5 Stars
Biographies are not my favorite form of literature, especially lenghthy ones such as this. But the author did a fantastic job, and I thoroughly enjoyed this book from cover to cover.We often see the Founding Fathers of this nation as legendary, almost mythical figures. McCullough brings out the humanity in them, especially Adams and Thomas Jefferson, a lifelong acquaintance and sometimes rival.
John Adams, the second President of the United States, was one of the most influential persons in the formation of this country, from the passing of the Declaration of Independence, through his presidency almost three decades later. His refusal to enter into a war with France probably insured the survival of this nation during a very precarious time in our history.
Much of the material for this book was drawn from Adams' many letters, to and from Abigail, for instance (they were separated for many years due to his assignments overseas and in the Nation's Capitol), and to and from Jefferson and others. Historians and biographers of Adams' are blessed in that probably no other figure in history left such a personal record behind as did Adams; his letters, many of a personal nature, numbered in the thousands and thousands of pages.
I'd highly recommend this book for anyone with an interest in our nations's founding. It's well worth the time spent reading it. As I read the final pages recording Adams' death on July 4, 1826, I felt a little sadness, realizing that the world on that date lost a man who paid a monumentous service to our country, and whose stature few men have since achieved.
Book Review: A Great American Tale
Summary: 5 Stars
This book has all the characteristics of a great biography--it is thoroughly researched, contains thoughtful analysis of both the man and the world around him and most importantly is extremely readable. John Adams has been nearly forgotten by history, his presidency lasting just one term between two of the most famous men to have held that office, but McCullough reminds readers that Adams was perhaps the most critical mind in America's independence movement, one of the great diplomats of America's infancy and a great friend and mentor to many of the leaders of his era and the one that followed. It is a great American tale of a man from humble beginnings who climbs to the highest office in the land. I would highly recommend this book to American history buffs--it is assured that even the best student of American history will learn a great deal about Adams and America's foundings--and those who enjoy biographies or good non-fiction.Book Review: A Great Read
Summary: 5 Stars
This is one of the best books I have ever read. It
is the first book by David McCullough that I have
read and he makes the history so interesting.....
like you are there. Historically I have never been
interested too much in history but reading this is
pure pleasure. I will most likely read more books
by this author.