Burr

by Gore Vidal
Burr cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Historical Fiction
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £14.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 5285
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780345339218
  • Published: 1982-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Gore Vidal's 'Burr' is a brilliantly realized and enormously readable novel that paints a fascinating portrait of Aaron Burr, one of the most enigmatic figures of the American Revolution. The book is a fictional memoir based on actual facts, offering a unique perspective on the early struggles and endless intrigues of the United States. Vidal's vivid prose brings history alive, making the concerns of a new nation feel as relevant as today's headlines. The novel is a masterful blend of historical fiction and political drama, offering a fresh look at the founding fathers and the complex man who was Aaron Burr./n/nVidal's writing is filled with drama and vigor, making 'Burr' a compelling read that transcends traditional historical narratives. The book is not just a story about Burr but also a vivid portrayal of the political and social landscape of early America. It's a tale of ambition, betrayal, and the enduring legacy of a nation in its formative years.

Reviews
SD Southard · SD Southard · 2016-11-30
exciting 4.75

The book is described as dangerous and exciting, making it one of the most thrilling historical fiction reads. It is praised for its meticulous research and emotional impact.

This reviewer describes the book as dangerous and exciting, making it one of the most thrilling historical fiction reads they have encountered. They appreciate the meticulous research that goes into the narrative, making it feel authentic and engaging. The book's ability to evoke emotions, including bringing the reviewer to tears, is particularly noted. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling and exciting read, with a unique perspective on historical events and figures.

Quick quotes

    Easily the most dangerous, and possibly exciting, historical fiction I have ever read is Burr by Gore Vidal.

    Gore Vidal is meticulous in his research and managed to eke a tear from my eye on the last few pages.

    The book's ability to evoke emotions, including bringing the reviewer to tears, is particularly noted.

Mike Finns Fiction · Mike Finn · 2015-03-14
engaging 4.50

The book is praised for its realistic portrayal and excellent storytelling. It is remembered for its well-written narrative and engaging content.

This reviewer fondly remembers the book for its realistic portrayal and excellent storytelling. They highlight Gore Vidal's skill as a storyteller, making the narrative engaging and memorable. The reviewer finds the book to be well-written and realistic, with a compelling narrative that stays with the reader long after finishing it. The book's ability to bring historical figures to life is particularly noted.

Quick quotes

    What I remember most about 'Burr' was how realistic it seemed and how well written it was.

    Gore Vidal is a wonderful story-teller, with an ...

    The book's ability to bring historical figures to life is particularly noted.

The Independent · 2014-06-12
compelling 4.00

The book blends cynicism with a strong sense of ethical conviction, making it a compelling read. It offers a unique perspective on politics and history.

This review highlights the book's unique blend of cynicism and ethical conviction, making it a standout read. The reviewer appreciates how Vidal's portrayal of politics and history is both absurd and thought-provoking. They find the book to be a wonderful escape, offering a fresh and engaging perspective on historical figures and events. The ethical conviction underlying the cynicism adds depth and makes the narrative more compelling.

Quick quotes

    What makes the book great is that the cynicism is mixed with a strong sense of ethical conviction: Vidal thinks politics is absurd but also ...

    This cynical novel is wonderful escapism.

    Vidal's portrayal of Burr as charming, cheeky and a bit of a benevolent rogue.

Goodreads · Sarah Johnson · 2010-05-15
excellent 4.00

The reviewer enjoyed the novel's unique perspective on Aaron Burr. They found the writing style engaging and the historical details fascinating.

Sarah Johnson on Goodreads enjoyed Gore Vidal's Burr for its unique perspective on Aaron Burr and the early days of the American Republic. They found the writing style engaging and the historical details fascinating, particularly the way Vidal brings Burr to life as a complex and multifaceted character. Johnson also appreciated the novel's blend of historical facts and fictional elements, which creates a compelling and entertaining narrative. They suggest that Burr is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in the early days of the American Republic. Overall, Johnson found the novel to be a captivating and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    Vidal's Burr is a novel that is both historically accurate and wildly imaginative.

    The writing style is engaging, and the historical details are fascinating.

    Burr is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in the early days of the American Republic.

Appears in Lists