John Adams by David McCullough Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of John Adams
Book Review: John Adams
Summary: 5 Stars
John Adams was fiercely patriotic and complicated and McCullough does an excellent job of relating the man to the reader. Adams friendship with Jefferson was extraordinary considering their diverse political views and it is told well. McCollough at his best.Book Review: John Adams will gain your respect
Summary: 5 Stars
If you had the basic American History education, you will not even come close to understanding how important John Adams was to the American Revolution and to the development of the United States. Even though this book is thick, your interest will not fail, as his life goes through many stages. I was the most touched by how much John and his wife, Abigail, truly loved each other and expressed it in their letters to each other. I think a book just about Abigail would be just as interesting, as she held down the fort in the Colonies while John was in Europe. If you like American History, you will enjoy this book.Book Review: One of the Finest Biographical Novels I've Read
Summary: 5 Stars
McCullough's skills are well documented (fascinating fact: none of his books have ever been out of print!) but they are appreciated to the utmost degree in this wonderful biography of John Adams. The writing is personal enough to give you a real sense of the emotions of John, Abigail and many of the other actors who John encounters in his momentous life. The history lesson is indeed educational -- even if you consider yourself well educated, there are aspects of the struggle for independence, the Revolutionary War, his travels to Europe and his presidency that will enlighten you. Most significantly for me was the depth of the struggle for independence and the role that John Adams played. It is very clear, after reading McCullough's account, that many players contributed to the breakaway from England, but none contributed more than John Adams. When rattling off the "founding fathers", I would typically get through quite a few names before getting to his...no more. John Adams' contributions were in the same gravity as Washington and Jefferson. The paperback version of this book is over 800 pages, but McCullough's writing hurtles you over that obstacle quickly. It is a wonderful read!Book Review: Outstanding Historical Prose at its Best
Summary: 5 Stars
Perhaps the most accomplished historical biography I have ever read. The life of John Adams develops before our eyes with such clear, insightful imagery that I have purchased 5 copies for various friends and family. Clearly the 2004 Pulitzer was well deserved and earned by this epitome of Historical Biographies. I wish McCullough would ventured to assess the lifes of Lincoln, FDR or Polk. President Polk who was responsible for the Oregon, Texas, New Mexico and California acquisitions.Book Review: Reads like a story...
Summary: 5 Stars
McCullough writes another wonderful book. John Adams seemed to have been the "forgotten founder" for a long while. Recently he has been revealed to be one of the most important founders.
McCullough goes into great detail of all the great accomplishments of John Adams. McCullough also informs the reader when Adams made a decision that was not for the best, although those were few and far between with all of Adams great accomplishments.
The relationship between Abagail and John is one that needs to be remembered by all historians and students of history. Their love for one another and their near constant letters to one another helped them get through the very difficult times.
McCullough also investigates the relationship between two great founders in Adams and Jefferson. He details their friendship when they were abroad (and during the Declaration of Independence) and their split when they ran against each other for President. The relationship came full circle with the men writing letters back and forth as they aged. Perhaps a coincidence or fate both men died on the 50th anniversery of the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1826).
This is a must read and is most likely THE biography on Adams.
McCullough's writing style allows the reader to breeze through the lengthy book and understand the achievements of John Adams life. Must read for Revolutionary fans, and fans of American History.