John Adams

Very well written, very interesting, VERY informative regarding what life in the 18th century was like, and how the US came to be established. Would be a great way for Americans to learn about what their nation was founded upon, what it means to be a dedicated citizen, a good offspring, sibling, parent, and the importance of being open minded, virtuous, optimistic, and a life long student. Very inspirational in sum. Reads much like an adventure novel in many ways. John Adams lived a rad life. My only criticisms would be that a few parts were a little confusing (but could likely be accredited to my not being articulate enough to fully comprehend the 18th c. letters cited), and that the author doesn't give Adams's negative traits as much attention as his positive ones. I appreciate that our nation can always use great stories about great heroes to look up to, and I have no doubt that John Adams is a prime example. But the author seemed a little biased in how much discrediting he does of Jefferson, while only briefly mentioning few negative traits belonging to Adams, such as his short temper, vanity, or his occasionally coming off as "mad". McCullough seems to dismiss Franklin and Jefferson's scathingly negative reviews of Adams to the government as mainly ploys for them to sustain priority in official matters. I would have liked to know more about what Adams had done to merit such reviews. Given the author's home town is the same as Adams, I don't doubt that being completely fair to the topic would be a bit of a challenge. Great book though for sure. Upon finishing I felt a bit like I had lost a friend who I had learned so much about, and spent time with every day for two months. I could probably read it again and get plenty more out of it and enjoy the process.

Adam's life story to me is more compelling than Jefferson. In fact, Jefferson's use of slander in the presidential election has lived to this day - showing how propaganda can dim the candle of one of the most important Americans to ever live. Unlike Jefferson or Washington, John was opposed to slavery and vehemently chastised Jefferson for his owning of slaves. I feel a hypocrisy with other founding fathers but am proud that John and Abigail firmly lived behind the ideals of our nation's founding.

One of the best American history books to pick up and read for both enjoyment and learning about how hard it was to start a Democratic government.