386 pages
English language
Published Jan. 18, 2006 by Simon & Schuster Paperbacks.
Chronicles the American Revolution during the year 1776, examining the leadership of George Washington and British commander William Howe and the experiences of American and British troops.
Many history texts don't bring you along. They make you understand but not feel as though you were, in part, there. McCullough's texts buck that trend consistently. I felt, I still feel, as though I could smell, hear and feel some of what happened in the company of George Washington and his "Army" in 1776.
This exposition of the first year of the Revolutionary War is incredibly gripping and suspenseful, given we know the outcome. When we look back at history, we have a tendency to imagine that outcomes were predetermined -- but McCullough's retelling, in which he puts us back into that moment of time, helps the reader to realize just how tenuous, fragile, and unlikely the Patriot's rebellion and fight for independence was.
McCullough's portrayal of Washington furthermore provides us with fresh perspective into his central role in fighting for American independence, as well as insight into the qualities of a strong leader.
I liked it, though it was somewhat dry. I'm really glad I listened to the audio book, which helped me get into it. I did keep getting distracted and bored, so probably not the right genre for me.
