Truman

by David McCullough
Truman cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £16.99
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Technical
  • ID: 6660
  • Added: 2025-11-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780671456542
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 1992-06-15
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

David McCullough's riveting biography of Harry S. Truman captures the essence of a man who led the nation through some of its most challenging times. Truman's presidency was marked by significant historical events, including the end of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War. This book provides an in-depth look at Truman's leadership and the decisions that shaped the world./n/nMcCullough's meticulous research and engaging narrative style bring Truman's story to life, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the man behind the presidency. The book is not just a historical account but also a personal journey, revealing Truman's character, struggles, and triumphs.

Reviews
Words and Dirt · 2021-04-30
mixed 3.00

The book is teeming with detail, which can be overwhelming. History buffs will appreciate it, but it may not be for everyone.

This reviewer found the book to be overwhelming due to its vast amount of detail. While history enthusiasts might feel right at home, they personally struggled to fully engage with the text. The depth of information is impressive, but it can make the reading experience challenging for those not deeply interested in historical minutiae.

Quick quotes

    Truman is a text so teeming with detail that I often found it overwhelming.

    History buffs will feel right at home, but I can't personally say that cracking it ...

    The book is a treasure trove of information, but it requires a significant investment of time and attention.

Best Presidential Bios · 2016-10-16
excellent 4.50

The book is animated, revealing, engaging, and surprisingly lively. It provides a comprehensive and enjoyable look into Truman's life.

This reviewer found the book to be wonderfully animated and thoughtfully revealing. They appreciated how consistently engaging and surprisingly lively it was, making it a joy to read. The depth of detail and the engaging narrative style make it a standout biography that brings Truman's life to vivid life.

Quick quotes

    It is wonderfully animated, thoughtfully revealing, consistently engaging and surprisingly lively.

    A masterful work that brings Truman's life to vivid life.

    The book is a joy to read, making it a standout biography.

The New York Times · Michiko Kakutani · 1992-06-21
excellent 4.50

The book captures Truman's life with emotional resonance, making it a satisfying narrative. It is a long but rewarding read.

Michiko Kakutani highlights how David McCullough effortlessly sculpts Truman's life into an emotionally satisfying narrative. Despite its length, the book is a rewarding read that captures the essence of Truman's character and his impact on history. The narrative quality and depth of detail make it a compelling biography that resonates with readers.

Quick quotes

    McCullough effortlessly sculpts Truman's life into an emotionally satisfying narrative.

    It may be an 1100-page biography replete with dates and block quotes, but it reads with the pace and engagement of a novel.

    Truman held to the old guidelines: work hard, do your best, speak the truth, assume no airs, trust in ...

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