Shelly's Book Journal

This is the story of George Washington's life - from the cradle to the grave, his family, his country, his story. Chernow has created a passionate volume of the personage that was Washington. First of all, I give it 4.5 stars, not a perfect 5 as I think the one downfall to this story is that it is not something that every American will read (and in this day and age, we all need to read this story) - full of intellectual vocabulary (thank goodness for reading the ebook version), and the relative length will scare the average American from tackling this tale. Some of the bulk could have been trimmed as the author hammered on Washington's plight with his finances and with slavery. That being said, I will add that I did enjoy the book. As a youth growing up in the Midwest, we learned little of Washington's true life. Now as a resident of Virginia, I see the General not only as the First Father, but a first son of our state. The man was truly amazing in his honor, courage, attention to detail, integrity, ingenuity and fortitude. Without any formal education, Washington's life shows us the possibilities for any of us who believe in ourselves and take the high road. Chernow leaves no stone unturned in his pursuit of a full and complete biography. While at times, I feel he speculated on Washington's thoughts and feelings, this book still stands as an honorable tribute of one so wrapped in honor.There is also a number of details on the lives of other Colonial characters including Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Lafayette. It also promotes an understanding of what our country was going through as it struggled to make the transition from colony to Republic. And honestly, things have not changed all that much in the world of politics - maybe the medium, but not the back biting, the connivance and the lies. Even the state of France after the Revolution brings thoughts of today and trying to deal with unstable countries. Amazing.My life will never be the same for having read it. I'd like to recommend it to everyone who lives in and loves America, but I understand that this story is not for the average reader. But I will say, it is truly a worthwhile read for those who love history and the truth.