In this powerful, epic biography, David McCullough unfolds the adventurous life journey of John Adams, the brilliant, fiercely independent, often irascible, always honest Yankee patriot who spared nothing in his zeal for the American Revolution; who rose to become the second president of the United States and saved the country from blundering into an unnecessary war; who was learned beyond all but a few and regarded by some as "out of his senses"; and whose marriage to the wise and valiant Ab... (show more)
An excellent, readable look at Adams' life. McCullough is a master of the historical biography and it is very well displayed in John Adams. Remarkable man, remarkable book.
It is beautifully detailed. Reads at a nice pace. I was struck by the life of Abigail and by her grit and charm.
This is one of the best books I have ever read. David McCullough has a wonderful way of putting you in the position of the person he is writting about!
I had to work to get through the first couple hundred pages. But those pages are so important in building the character and explaining why John Adams becomes who he becomes. As the war and post-war events unfold, it's hard to put down. Fascinating to read about the beginning of party politics. And very fascinating to read about the different relationships with Jefferson, Washington, Hamiton, etc. Can't wait to read 1776.
The best book I’ve read on John Adams. It really puts his life, and the whole period into perspective. The sections on his relationship with his wife and Thomas Jefferson are most interesting. You’ll wonder why there is no National John Adams Memorial in Washington D.C. after reading it.