– “John Adams” – A Review

I finished reading “John Adams” by David McCullough quite some time ago now. I loved it! My dear friends and family probably got quite tired of hearing me constantly ramble on about Mr. Adams while I read about him and shortly after. I used to go on forever about him. I still do at times. It was while reading this book that I wrote “Proverbs and John Adams” as well as “John Adams, King David and Fatherhood”. As much as I loved the book however, when it came to writing a review, I was daunted. For some reason, I didn’t know how or where to begin. Then I posted a list of all the books I had read in recent months, asking if there were any that my readers would like me to review – three requests were made and among them was one for “John Adams”. So, without further ado I will commence…

David McCullough is a contemporary author, born in Pennsylvania in July of 1933. He is married and the father of five children. He has written several books about history including “1776” and “Mornings on Horseback”.

“John Adams” was published in 2001 by Simon & Schuster Paperbacks. It is divided into three parts and twelve chapters. Excluding the acknowledgements, source notes, bibliography and index, the book is 651 pages. It does however include an immense list of source notes for each chapter and a complete bibliography.

In “John Adams”, Mr. McCullough seeks to give the reader a good look at the man who became our first vice-president and second president. Quoting extensively from Mr. Adams’ letters, journals, speeches and other writings, the reader is shown the struggles, victories, trials and triumphs of one of our founding fathers. Beginning with his birth and ending with his death, you will witness his love for his parents, his farm, his children, his wife and his God. Mr. Adams’ was one of, if not the one most prominent figure, who worked for the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. A man who loved his farm and fields, he only entered public life because he felt it was it duty. His letters to his wife are filled with love for her and their children as well as a longing for home. The personality and character of Mrs. Abigail Adams is shown, as well as that of her husband. A strong but loving wife, Mrs. Adams’ was truly the best friends and help meet of her husband. As well as a close up view of Mr. Adams and his family, the reader will get to see much of Thomas Jefferson, both as a young man and an old man as well as a detailed outline of the Revolutionary days and the early years of the United States of America.

This is probably one of the best books that I have ever read for history. It is engaging, intriguing and immensely interesting. I don’t think I could pick a favorite part.

Don’t let the size daunt you. The book is long but worth it. I would very highly recommend this book!

We also carry this book in the History category of our Amazon aStore, which you can visit here!

To the KING be all the glory!