Truman

By: David McCullough

Narrated by: Nelson Runger

Pulitzer Prize, Biography/Autobiography, 1993

Hailed by critics as an American masterpiece, David McCullough's sweeping biography of Harry S. Truman captured the heart of the nation. The life and times of the 33rd president of the United States, Truman provides a deeply moving look at an extraordinary, singular American.

From Truman's small-town, turn-of-the-century boyhood and his transforming experience in the face of war in 1918, to his political beginnings in the powerful Pendergast machine and his rapid rise to prominence in the U.S. Senate, McCullough shows a man of uncommon vitality and strength of character.

Here too is a telling account of Truman's momentous decision to use the atomic bomb and the weighty responsibilities that he was forced to confront on the dawning of a new age.

Distinguished historian and Pulitzer-Prize-winning author David McCullough tells one of the greatest American stories in this stirring audio adaptation of Truman - a compelling, classic portrait of a life that shaped history.

©2011 Simon & Schuster (P)2003 David McCullough

Critic reviews

“McCullough’s marvelous feel for history is based on an appreciation of colorful tales and an insight intopersonalities. In this compelling saga of America’s greatest common-man president, McCullough adds luster to an old-fashioned historical approach.... the sweeping narrative, filled with telling details and an appreciation of the role individuals play in shaping the world.” (Walter Isaacson, Time)

“McCullough is a master storyteller whose considerable narrative skills have been put to exquisite use in re-creating the life and times of America’s 33rd president.” (Robert Dallek, Los Angeles Times Book Review)

“Perhaps the highest tribute one can pay a biographer is to say that through him one comes to know his subject almost as though in person. In fostering the reader’s acquaintance with Harry Truman, not once does McCullough get in the way. This is in every respect a splendid work.” (Myron A. Marty, St. Louis Post-Dispatch)

Wonderful

Where does Truman rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

One of the best.

What other book might you compare Truman to and why?

Flight Behavior. A fiction story, but it also was gripping from beginning to end.

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

Truman

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

The story was fascinating. It was told in great detail. I had difficulty turning it off. I kept putting off chores so I could free up time to listen. The story was captivating and told so well.

Any additional comments?

I strongly recommend this book especially for history buffs.

Truman biography is a winner

Would you listen to Truman again? Why?

This book is by David McCullough. Anyone who has read any of his books know that in itself is a treat. But Truman's straight talk mirrors many of the messages that resound in our own time. We can learn from him even half a century later. Would that there were more people in Washington like him today. Everyone should listen to this book to get a glimpse of a politician who had a strong set of values.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Truman?

The story of being catapulted into the presidency during World War II was particularly interesting.

Entertaining and edifying.

Took on a long road trip, others in the car enjoyed it so much that they got audible accounts just to finish the book.

Fantastic & Interesting

Would you listen to Truman again? Why?

David McCullough gives life to all the historical figures he writes about, Truman is no different.

Brilliantly written and narrated

David Mccullough is an American treasure. His comprehensive history of the life, work and legacy of our 33rd president is unparalleled. I will add that Nelson Runger brings the characters to life with his brilliant narration.

Superb

Superb. It was one of David McCullough best. Wish I read it earlier. Simply masterful.

I felt like I personally knew him

long, detailed, thorough, and fair. included unflattering parts while illustrating his greatness.
I want to visit his museum now and think I'd have a greater appreciation for it.

Excellent

The book captures you from the first chapter straight to the end- enjoyed and learned

This President needs to be more well known

I truly think that every American needs to read this book. Some of the world’s most pivotal events occurred under the leadership of President Truman and to better understand the context of history one must read this side of the story. Great listen. I will have to revisit this again. It was read beautifully. The first few chapters recounting his ancestors lives and his first few years were a bit dry as mentioned in other comments, but were a necessary backdrop.

Excellent!

Truman is an engaging work that is well written and excellently performed. This is no short story, coming in somewhere over 900 pages, but I found myself interested and engaged through to the end. It is worth the considerable time donation, especially in the politically turbulent times we find ourselves in today to consider the success and failure of those that lived before us. 5 stars for a great book about a strong and able president. Well worth the listen!