John Adams

This month my book club choose to read David McCullough's biography, John Adams. Although there were some understandable feelings of apprehension from the ladies of my book club due to its size and content, I'm ever so grateful to Emily R. for having chosen it. It's a well written, fascinating history of both John Adams and America. (This is my favorite picture of Adams, age 89).

In reading this book, I was astounded at the sheer volume of research that was necessary to write a biography of this magnitude. Because of John Adams' love of writing (both in his journal and the thousands of letters he sent to family, friends, and other politicans- 5 miles worth of microfilm, actually), there is a plethora of material from which we can get to know John Adams. Unlike Thomas Jefferson, Adams is very explicit in describing his thoughts and feelings (both flattering himself and candidly admitting his many flaws), which allowed McCullough to write a biography that is historically accurate, interesting, and one that also enables the reader to get to know John Adams, inside and out. Although McCullough obviously respects and admires Adams, he is not afraid to point out some of the mistakes or flaws found in Adams character or in political decisions.

However, don't get into this book expecting a lesson in American history; this book follows Adams' life and how he fit into American history. Obviously, it covers the major events in America during his life, but not in great depth. (For example, Adams was in Europe for nearly all of the Revolutionary War). It's a biography, not a history book.

One thing I found especially interesting was the relationship between John and his wife, Abigail. Their relationship is one that you would expect more from a modern-day woman, not one of the 18th century. Abigail is delightful- she's brilliant, feisty, opinionated, well-informed, and a pillar of strength for her family and husband. Their correspondence together is one of the best parts of the book.

Aside from giving me a very new perspective on one of the most important founders of America, John Adams is a book I dreamed about (one night I was trying to convince the other states' delgates to sign the Declaration; another I was helping the Federalists campaign for Adams re-election), thought about, and couldn't put down.

You should read it.