John Adams

by David McCullough
John Adams cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Biography and Memoir
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  • ID: 6649
  • Added: 2025-11-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-27
  • ISBN: 9780743218290
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2001-05-22
  • Reviews: 3

David McCullough's masterful biography of John Adams brings to life the adventurous and often irascible patriot who played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. This epic tale delves into Adams' zealous pursuit of independence, his rise to the presidency, and his complex relationships, including his profound love for his wife, Abigail. The book is not just a historical account but a deep exploration of human nature, love, faith, and the consequences of noble ideas. /n/n McCullough's narrative is rich with detail, offering insights into Adams' political acumen, his struggles, and his enduring impact on the nation. The biography is a testament to Adams' brilliance and his unwavering commitment to the principles of liberty and democracy, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts and general readers alike.

Reviews
Reddit - r/books · 2018-01-01
captivating 5.00

The book is praised for its excellent prose and captivating story about American history. It is recommended as a must-read for anyone interested in the subject.

This review on Reddit highlights the book's excellent prose and captivating story about American history. The reviewer is particularly impressed by the way McCullough brings the historical period to life, making it a compelling read. They recommend the book as a must-read for anyone interested in American history, praising its engaging narrative and the deep insights it provides into John Adams's life and character. The review reflects a strong appreciation for the book's ability to captivate and educate readers.

Quick quotes

    I give this book five stars because of its excellent prose and captivating story about American History.

    This book should be owned by every American.

    McCullough's portrayal of Adams is both engaging and insightful.

Best Presidential Bios · 2013-02-09
extraordinary 4.50

The book is described as an extraordinary epic and a wonderfully told story of John Adams's life. It is praised for its engaging narrative and the fascinating insights it provides.

In this review, the book is celebrated as an extraordinary epic that wonderfully tells the story of John Adams's life. The reviewer is captivated by the engaging narrative and the fascinating insights into Adams's character and the historical context. They express a sense of wonder at McCullough's ability to bring Adams's life to vivid detail, making it a compelling read. The review highlights the book's ability to captivate readers with its rich storytelling and deep historical context.

Quick quotes

    Stated simply, 'John Adams' is an extraordinary epic and a wonderfully told story of John Adams' life.

    I can only wonder whether McCullough's portrayal will stand the test of time.

    The book provides fascinating insights into Adams's character and the historical period.

Claremont Review of Books · 2001-01-01
compelling 4.00

The book is a compelling and beautifully written account of Adams's life and character, though it has some faults. The narrative is vivid and engaging, offering deep insights into Adams's personality and the historical context.

This review highlights the book as a beautifully written and compelling account of John Adams's life. The reviewer appreciates the vivid narrative and the deep insights into Adams's character, noting how the book brings the historical period to life. However, they also point out that the book is not without its faults, suggesting that some aspects might be overly critical or lacking in depth. Overall, the review praises the book for its engaging storytelling and the way it captures the essence of Adams's life and times.

Quick quotes

    McCullough has written an utterly compelling, even beautiful, account of Adams's life and character.

    The book is not without its faults, however.

    Despite his [Adams's] flaws, the narrative is vivid and engaging.

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