I know him, that can’t be

One of my first favorite books was Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes. It won the Newberry Medal in 1944 and I must have read a dozen times starting in fourth or fifth grade. Since then, I have loved revolutionary America. Naturally then, I’ve wanted to read this book for quite some time. I read 1776, also by David McCullough, while in college and found myself interested in this book.  As a history major, I didn’t specialize in any specific era but colonial America would have been my preference. I really like McCullough’s books though I find them to be a tad bit drier than say Ron Chernow. I bring that up because I think that John Adams received a rather unflattering characterization due to Hamilton, the musical. Don’t get me wrong, Adams deserves plenty of criticism, HELLO Alien and Sedition Acts! But his contributions to America, not just American history, but actual America render him one of the most important Founding Fathers. Adams was not the stereotypical quiet and reserved New Englander, he was a fiery and emotional man. He could hold grudges and act vindictive and petty. He was also brilliant and a caring father and husband. If all you know about Adams is from Hamilton, I highly suggest you read this book and see a more complete picture of one of our most underrated Founding Fathers.