Travels with George: In Search of Washington and His Legacy by Nathaniel Philbrick - 3 stars

[Charlie]

Part history lesson, part travelogue, part tribute to Steinbeck, part social commentary on current America - the author retraces Wahington's travels both North and South to both ratify the Constitution and secure Washington D.C. as the nation's capital during his first term as President.

I enjoyed the history but could have done without everything else, so much so that I rounded up to land at 3 stars.

If you already know the history of Washington's trip, the ratification of the Constitution and Federalists/Anti-Federalists infighting of Hamilton and Jefferson, then I recommend you skip it.

I really like Philbrick as an author but this one felt contrived almost like he had a deadline for a last book and instead of writing it he kind of half-retired road-tripping with his wife and dog and mailed it in. I think what did me in was the incessant chatter about his traveling dog, Dora, who by the way he didn't even mention in the acknowledgements.

This was my Washington biography read for Regina, after stalling 200 pgs. into Chernow's biography fearing I wouldn't finish in time. Onto John Adams next with renewed hope.

[Rachel N.]

Sorry it wasn't great. I'll be wrapping up my Washington book within the week. We're reading the same book for John Adams. I hope it's a better read for you.

[Steven]

As much as have really enjoyed several of his other books, this one I was thinking I would skip. You all's comments have pretty much reinforced that decision. Thanks for taking the time to write about it.

[Charlie]

Rachel N. wrote: "Sorry it wasn't great. I'll be wrapping up my Washington book within the week. We're reading the same book for John Adams. I hope it's a better read for you."

Looking forward to reading together and sharing notes along the way.