John Adams

By: David McCullough

Narrated by: Nelson Runger

Pulitzer Prize, Biography/Autobiography, 2002

In this powerful, epic biography, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough unfolds the adventurous life-journey of John Adams, the brilliant, fiercely independent, often irascible, always honest Yankee patriot who spared nothing in his zeal for the American Revolution. Adams thought, wrote, and spoke out for the "Great Cause" come what might; he traveled far and wide in all seasons and often at extreme risk; he rose to become the second president of the United States and saved the country from blundering into an unnecessary war; he was rightly celebrated for his integrity, and regarded by some as "out of his senses"; and his marriage to the wise and valiant Abigail Adams is one of the most moving love stories in American history.

Much about Adams' life will come as a surprise to many. His rocky relationship with friend and eventual archrival Thomas Jefferson, his courageous voyage on the frigate Boston in the winter of 1778, and his later trek over the Pyrenees are exploits few would have dared and that few listeners will ever forget.

McCullough's John Adams has the sweep and vitality of a great novel. This is history on a grand scale, an audiobook about politics, war, and social issues, but also about human nature, love, religious faith, virtue, ambition, friendship, and betrayal, and the far-reaching consequences of noble ideas. Above all, it is an enthralling, often surprising story of one of the most important and fascinating Americans who ever lived.

©2001 David McCullough (P)2001 Recorded Books, All Rights Reserved

Critic reviews

"Brilliant...a winner." (Publishers Weekly)
"McCullough writes to be heard as well as read." (AudioFile)

An outstanding biography

David McCullogh's biography of John Adams is an outstanding book about an outstanding man. This is one of the finest biographies I have read or listened to. By the end of the book I felt like I knew John Adams - both his outstanding strengths and his human frailties. I came away with a far better appreciation for Adams and his role in the birth of America than I had previously. The book also provides fascinating glimpses into the other strong personalities of the time, including Hamilton, Franklin and Washington, but most especially Jefferson. It is written beautifully and is so enjoyable to listen to that I was a bit sad when it ended. I strongly recommend this great work.

The Greatness of a Man

David Mc Cullough has written an epic history about John Adams and the times in which he lived. This book, along with the others of Mr Mc Cullough, present us with a penatrating view into the life and times of our Founding Fathers. He provides insights, not only into their great achievements, but the character of the men who behind these sustained accomplishements. I came away from listening to this book, not only knowing more about the history of America, but the incredible sacrifices made by the men and women of that time, despite the great likelihood that their efforts would fail, and if they did, that they would be treated as traitors and be sent to the gallows. We are provided not only with their great achievements, but their struggles, political differences and at times brutal treatment of one another. That these men could behave in such fashion and yet still remain focused on their objective and somehow still remain friends or at least admirers, is a testament to their character. We should be greatful for their sacrifices and tenacity, without which we would not be living in the United States of America. If read only to be made aware of what makes up great character, it is worth every moment you listen. Add to that the understanding of the historical underpinnings of the founding of America, and you have a superior literary mastery piece.

Listen or Watch

I opted for the Listen to John Adams rather than to Watch John Adams on a Cable Network Pay Channel. This was far better. As a history buff I was thrilled to listen to all the ins and outs of the whole story. At times, as with all history I had to step back and do something else; however over all it was an enjoyable listen.

Fantastic

What about Nelson Runger’s performance did you like?

Nelson Runger masterfully reads this book, making it interesting and easy to listen to.

Any additional comments?

I saw and enjoyed the mini-series but remained interested in reading the book. Decided to try the audiobook, given the lack of time I have for reading. My hour commutes became very enjoyable and actually something to look forward to while listening to the book. The descriptions of the people coupled with descriptions of famous paintings/ sculptures of the famous men and women made it very easy to picture events in my mind.

great book, but voice imitation was irritating

the story and writing are superb. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! !!

The only problem was the narrator's choice to attempt to have vaguely different voices for various characters. In a different genre, like fiction, this may be applicable, but when reading history it's just irritating. McCullough made a much better reader on his other title, 1776.

History is so Interesting

What made the experience of listening to John Adams the most enjoyable?

The narration, and detail of history.

What was one of the most memorable moments of John Adams?

His thoughts in later years about himself.

Which scene was your favorite?

Any where he and his wife are in conversation alone together.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

The political tumult of yesterday so much like today!

The foundations of the American democracy

An outstanding book and narration! It puts modern day state of the union in perspective by showing how fragile democracy is, and how much it depends on the integrity of those at the steering wheel.

Spellbinding!

What made the experience of listening to John Adams the most enjoyable?

I loved the richness of the narator's voice unfolding the story of our country's beginnings

What was one of the most memorable moments of John Adams?

The correspondence between John and Abigail was enlightening and heartwarming. Their letters are a big part of the unfolding of the personal thoughts during this time of John Adams.

Which character – as performed by Nelson Runger – was your favorite?

John Adams was my favorite.

great story, all should listen

This man's life is a story of great value. It is an amazing way to learn about the beginning of the USA and understand in a truly deep way where so much of what we have came from, and is sure to inspire awe.

Entirely Great

This was wonderful in every way. I believe we tend to think of people from Adams' period as dry and distant; it's hard to think of them in modern terms with emotions as we experience them. This, however, humanizes Adams like no other book I've read has done of the time. You feel like you knew him when it's over. Some of this can be attributed to the reading, which was equally as good. Highly recommended.