John Adams by David McCullough

This book is among my favorites. A New York Times Best Seller, winner of the Pulitzer Prize, and even now an HBO series is coming out about it. After several centuries of sitting passenger side to Washington, Franklyn and Jefferson, This book finally puts the spotlight where it belongs, on John Adams.

The greatest strength in this book is that the story teller is largely Adams himself. The book uses diary entries and letters to describe the events with only filler comments by McCullough to keep the story flowing. You really get an insight into Adams mind, his relationship with Abagail, and his dedication to God and America. You learn of his intricate part in the creation of this country from his famous speech turning the opinions for declaration of independence, to securing loans to fund the new nation. Did you know it was John Adams who created the US Navy and our common currency? The book also gives an intimate insight into the love John shared with his wife and the role she played in helping him through every major decision. You cannot read this book without gaining a new appreciation of our founding father and the tremendous sacrifice they made.

Needless to say, I highly recommend this book.