John Adams

by David McCullough

Reviews of John Adams by David McCullough

       This book is a very well researched biography of our second President describing in detail the various events of his lifetime as well as the men and women (especially Abigail) who influenced his decisions and actions at a vital time in our nation's history. This book helps the reader understand the colonial times as though you were living in them. American history books briefly mention John Adams but this book brings him to life.  This book describes the relationships, differences of opinion, political maneuvers, and rivalries between John Adams and George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, James Madison, and the adored son, John Quincy Adams. The differences between the points of view of the New Englanders such as John Adams from Massachusettes, and the Virginians, especially Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, become clear. The stark contrast between the ambassador styles of Benjamin Franklin, who liked to bed the French ladies, and the Puritan values of John Adams, were depicted poignantly.  This book should be required reading in every high school in the nation.

John Adams by David McCullough was reviewed by Mary Ann Scharf

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