book data
74 ratings,
4.08
average rating, 11 reviews
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published
September 2001
(first published 1993)
by W. W. Norton & Company
binding
Paperback, 288 pages
isbn
0393311333
(isbn13: 9780393311334)
description
A fresh look at this astute, likably quirky statesman, by the author of the Pulitzer Award-winning Founding Brothers. "The most lovable and most ...more
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other reviews (showing 1-20 of 141)
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avg 4.08
editions: all | this edition
editions: all | this edition
Read in April, 2009
I found this to be an excellent book. Easily read and entertaining as well. The author is very meticulous about his references.
Here's an entertaining snippet from the book - John Adams' opinion of the upper house of the legislature.
From page 152:
...Adams's motives for favoring the creation of a senate were entirely different and seemed to smack of an affection for a European-styled aristocracy. "The rich, the well-born, and the able, acquire an influence ...more
Here's an entertaining snippet from the book - John Adams' opinion of the upper house of the legislature.
From page 152:
...Adams's motives for favoring the creation of a senate were entirely different and seemed to smack of an affection for a European-styled aristocracy. "The rich, the well-born, and the able, acquire an influence ...more
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This book was one of those which inspired David McCullough to write his biography of Adams. Not a traditional biography, Ellis chooses to focus on small sections of Adams' personal life, particularly his correspondence with Jefferson. He reveals some keen insights about Adams (I was most intrigued by Adams' observation that men are motivated by a need for esteem--be it love, fear, etc).
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One of my favorites at this time. Simone characterized Ellis's style as dry humor, and that's about right, but I love the way he writes. Who knew I could become BFF's with one of the founding fathers but Ellis made me love Adams.
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Read in January, 2007
John Adams is one of U.S. history's more engaging characters. Ellis does a great job describing Adam's passion and wisdom as he helped with the founding of our Nation. A great book though I found David McCullough's book on John Adams a little more moving.
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Read in July, 1993
This is an insightful and interesting study of Adam's charatcer. I enjoyed the book and it was easy to read, despite the fact that some times history books can be dry. Well worth reading.
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Read in November, 2006
I find Joseph Ellis to be a lot more even handed towards Mr. Adams than is the ever popular David McCullough, whom I find to have a little too much pollyanna in him.
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In my opinion, Joseph Ellis approaches history with the mindset of a psychologist and I find this a unique and refreshing perspective.
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06/23/08
Emily
is currently reading it
Oh that scamp John Adams!
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