One thing is certain, John Adams was a small, small man. Seriously, he was like 4 feet tall. His story is really a backdrop for an excellent history of the United States (and parts of Europe) during the time he lived. You really get a feel for what was going on, as well as deep insights into their thoughts and motivations, which makes their actions a lot more understandable and multi-dimensional than the list of actions and dates you memorized in school. David McCullough is an amazing writer, showing the world through personal letters from people of the time (not sure how he got these) that they were all way better writers than we are today and amazingly regal and dignified for people who apparently just peed freely in the streets.
Length: 9 hrs
7/2002: A continuation of the “teach me something you amazing machine” phase, I really enjoyed this book. I learned a lot about the life and times surrounding the Revolutionary War and the intense political divisions of the era, and was entertained throughout. Definitely recommended.