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Alistair Cooke's America
First published in 1973, this follow-up to Alistair Cookes dynamic history and its ever-changing present continues to provide striking insights into the remarkable character of a nation.
Paperback, 344 pages
Published
August 25th 2009
by Basic Books
(first published September 12th 1973)
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This is a great book, a fascinating all in one guide to American History. I've only read half of it. This may seem not much of a recommendation, but reading the book drew me in to the subject so much that I start deviating off, reading other sources covering the same period of history. It was a library book, I'd renewed it once, and thought I should give someone else a chance and get on with reading a novel or two. But I will go back to it, but I'll probably buy it next time.
A little dated and by nature not as deep as it could be, but it is a sympathetic third party look at American history by an Englishman who knew us well. The writing style is very user-friendly especially for those who are not history wonks. I think it could be the basis of a good high school American history course. I've re-read this book countless times since I rescued a copy from the recycling bin while in high school.
One of the big cultural communicators of his time, so I expected more quirky insight, that everyday experience would inform this magnum opus more. But it was mainstream and conventional. In some areas (nuclear power and computers) he's drunk the kool-aid but had no insight. To be fair this was written in the 70s when the Cold War was a major pre-occupation. So respect to AC but no worship.
Excellent overview of the last 400 years of the US's history told in Cooke's inimitable style - witty, deeply thought out and above all informative. Although written in the 70s, his comments are just as relevant today and give an interesting insight in the historical causes and effects of American society as we know it.
Jan C
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review of another edition
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review of another edition
Recommends it for:
People interested in american history and/or literature
Shelves:
non-fiction
This came out around the time he did the series on PBS.
It has great pictures which were taken by Cooke. It is a fairly interesting overview of America and its history.
It has great pictures which were taken by Cooke. It is a fairly interesting overview of America and its history.
A bit dated as to his conclusions, probably because it was written before the turn of the century. But up to the final chapter, the story of our development flows fascinatingly from Mr. Cooke's pen, from the continent's earliest days until the 70' or 90s. I would strongly recommend this book.
Nicely read by Mr. Cooke. A very interesting retelling of our history. I like his perspective on the origins of our various episodes in history and the way he made the story of America blend into a complete whole rather than merely a series of chapters. I didn't agree so much with all of his conclusions - this story was written prior to 2001. Found this book to be interesting and thought-provoking.
Superb read. A man with a true grasp of the massive history of America and its development. His perspective of historical events come with an excellent slant and he has managed to note the many hidden aspects of American history that you would rarely find in such detail in a single place. One of the best non-fiction novels I have read.
I remember hearing Cooke called a "modern Toqueville" in a review of this book. The description seems apt. Cooke views the people in American history with a clear but sympathetic eye.
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