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Being George Washington
IF YOU THINK YOU KNOW GEORGE WASHINGTON, THINK AGAIN.
This is the amazing true story of a real-life superhero who wore no cape and possessed no special powers—yet changed the world forever. It’s a story about a man whose life reads as if it were torn from the pages of an action novel: Bullet holes through his clothing. Horses shot out from under him. Unimaginable hardship. Disease. Heroism. Spies and double-agents. And, of course, the unmistakable hand of Divine Providence that guided it all.
Being George Washington is a whole new way to look at history. You won’t simply read about the awful winter spent at Valley Forge—you’ll live it right alongside Washington. You’ll be on the boat with him crossing the Delaware, in the trenches with him at Yorktown, and standing next to him at the Constitutional Convention as a new republic is finally born.
Through these stories you’ll not only learn our real history (and how it applies to today), you’ll also see how the media and others have distorted our view of it. It’s ironic that the best-known fact about George Washington—that he chopped down a cherry tree—is a complete lie. It’s even more ironic when you consider that a lie was thought necessary to prove he could not tell one.
For all of his heroism and triumphs, Washington’s single greatest accomplishment was the man he created in the process: courageous and principled, fair and just, respectful to all. But he was also something else: flawed.
It’s those flaws that should give us hope for today. After all, if Washington had been perfect, then there would be no way to build another one. That’s why this book is not just about being George Washington in 1776, it’s about the struggle to be him every single day of our lives. Understanding the way he turned himself from an uneducated farmer into the Indispensable (yet imperfect) Man, is the only way to build a new generation of George Washingtons that can take on the extraordinary challenges that America is once again facing.
287 pages, Hardcover
First published November 11, 2011
182 people are currently reading
3265 people want to read
About the author
Glenn Beck
76 books1,081 followersGlenn Edward Lee Beck is one of America's leading radio and television personalities. His quick wit, candid opinions and engaging personality have made The Glenn Beck Program the third highest rated radio program in America and Glenn Beck, one of the most successful new shows on the Fox News Channel. His unique blend of modern-day storytelling and insightful views on current events allowed him to achieve the extraordinary feat of having #1 New York Times bestsellers in both fiction and non-fiction. Beck also stars in a live stage show and is the publisher of Fusion magazine.
Online, he is the editor of GlennBeck.com and the publisher of TheBlaze.com.
Beck is the author of six consecutive #1 New York Times Bestsellers including his latest book, the thriller The Overton Window. When The Christmas Sweater, his first novel, debuted at #1 on the fiction list, Beck became one of a handful of authors to write books that reached #1 on both the fiction and non-fiction NYT lists.
Online, he is the editor of GlennBeck.com and the publisher of TheBlaze.com.
Beck is the author of six consecutive #1 New York Times Bestsellers including his latest book, the thriller The Overton Window. When The Christmas Sweater, his first novel, debuted at #1 on the fiction list, Beck became one of a handful of authors to write books that reached #1 on both the fiction and non-fiction NYT lists.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 399 reviews
April 13, 2022
IF YOU THINK YOU KNOW GEORGE WASHINGTON, THINK AGAIN.
This is the amazing true story of a real-life superhero who wore no cape and possessed no special powers—yet changed the world forever. It’s a story about a man whose life reads as if it were torn from the pages of an action novel: Bullet holes through his clothing. Horses shot out from under him. Unimaginable hardship. Disease. Heroism. Spies and double-agents. And, of course, the unmistakable hand of Divine Providence that guided it all.
Being George Washington is a whole new way to look at history. You won’t simply read about the awful winter spent at Valley Forge—you’ll live it right alongside Washington. You’ll be on the boat with him crossing the Delaware, in the trenches with him at Yorktown, and standing next to him at the Constitutional Convention as a new republic is finally born.
Through these stories you’ll not only learn our real history (and how it applies to today), you’ll also see how the media and others have distorted our view of it. It’s ironic that the best-known fact about George Washington—that he chopped down a cherry tree—is a complete lie. It’s even more ironic when you consider that a lie was thought necessary to prove he could not tell one.
For all of his heroism and triumphs, Washington’s single greatest accomplishment was the man he created in the process: courageous and principled, fair and just, respectful to all. But he was also something else: flawed.
Having read several biographical books about Washington, I still learn something new from each including this one. Sometimes newer writings present corrections based on newly available information or information that had not been disclosed before.
This is the amazing true story of a real-life superhero who wore no cape and possessed no special powers—yet changed the world forever. It’s a story about a man whose life reads as if it were torn from the pages of an action novel: Bullet holes through his clothing. Horses shot out from under him. Unimaginable hardship. Disease. Heroism. Spies and double-agents. And, of course, the unmistakable hand of Divine Providence that guided it all.
Being George Washington is a whole new way to look at history. You won’t simply read about the awful winter spent at Valley Forge—you’ll live it right alongside Washington. You’ll be on the boat with him crossing the Delaware, in the trenches with him at Yorktown, and standing next to him at the Constitutional Convention as a new republic is finally born.
Through these stories you’ll not only learn our real history (and how it applies to today), you’ll also see how the media and others have distorted our view of it. It’s ironic that the best-known fact about George Washington—that he chopped down a cherry tree—is a complete lie. It’s even more ironic when you consider that a lie was thought necessary to prove he could not tell one.
For all of his heroism and triumphs, Washington’s single greatest accomplishment was the man he created in the process: courageous and principled, fair and just, respectful to all. But he was also something else: flawed.
Having read several biographical books about Washington, I still learn something new from each including this one. Sometimes newer writings present corrections based on newly available information or information that had not been disclosed before.
May 24, 2012
The more I learn about George Washington, the more I realize what a remarkable man he was. More than once, he had power in his hands, and the possibility of gaining more. On each occasion, he gave up that power -- the first time when he resigned his commission as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, the second time when he passed up any opportunity to mold the Presidency to his own tastes while serving on the Constitutional Convention, and the last time at the end of his second term as President of the United States.
Each time George Washington gave up supreme power, he did so for the good of the nation. Each time he did it, he did so to strengthen the institutions of the brand-new American republic. He was able to put the greater needs of his country ahead of his own advancement, proving himself to be truly a man of character when he did so.
In this book, Beck examines different time periods in George Washington's life, starting with his military command during the French and Indian War and ending with his death at Mount Vernon in 1799. In between, he describes incidents from the Revolutionary War, the Constitutional Convention, and his presidency. Beck describes how Washington responded to a number of crises that could affect the future of the fledgling United States of America. Beck examines how Washington's character influenced his actions in each of these cases.
Beck is not afraid to discuss Washington's faith in God. George Washington was a devout man, who prayed regularly. Beck mentions several incidents, from the Battle of the Monongahela through the American Revolution, that led Washington to believe that God was watching out for him or supporting the cause of the colonists in their rebellion against the British military. For example, on one occasion, two storms, following each other closely, prevented the British troops trapped at Yorktown from escaping, and also prevented the Royal Navy from leaving New York harbor, where it had gone to repair it ships after a naval battle with the French.
Beck uses his biographical sketch of George Washington to explain how he developed these traits that made him the man he was.
Finally, Beck relates his analyses of Washington's character to the modern day, and how it compares to some of the career politicians who are serving in government today. He makes the point that Washington's positive traits are still relevant today, and how you can apply some of his traits to your own life. Maybe you will never become the Father of your Country, but, Beck says, you can still make a difference.
Each time George Washington gave up supreme power, he did so for the good of the nation. Each time he did it, he did so to strengthen the institutions of the brand-new American republic. He was able to put the greater needs of his country ahead of his own advancement, proving himself to be truly a man of character when he did so.
In this book, Beck examines different time periods in George Washington's life, starting with his military command during the French and Indian War and ending with his death at Mount Vernon in 1799. In between, he describes incidents from the Revolutionary War, the Constitutional Convention, and his presidency. Beck describes how Washington responded to a number of crises that could affect the future of the fledgling United States of America. Beck examines how Washington's character influenced his actions in each of these cases.
Beck is not afraid to discuss Washington's faith in God. George Washington was a devout man, who prayed regularly. Beck mentions several incidents, from the Battle of the Monongahela through the American Revolution, that led Washington to believe that God was watching out for him or supporting the cause of the colonists in their rebellion against the British military. For example, on one occasion, two storms, following each other closely, prevented the British troops trapped at Yorktown from escaping, and also prevented the Royal Navy from leaving New York harbor, where it had gone to repair it ships after a naval battle with the French.
Beck uses his biographical sketch of George Washington to explain how he developed these traits that made him the man he was.
Finally, Beck relates his analyses of Washington's character to the modern day, and how it compares to some of the career politicians who are serving in government today. He makes the point that Washington's positive traits are still relevant today, and how you can apply some of his traits to your own life. Maybe you will never become the Father of your Country, but, Beck says, you can still make a difference.
September 18, 2012
Loved this book! I got to see George Washington the man, not George Washington the President! It read more like a novel than a history book and I learned a lot (always a plus). This book piqued my interest so much so that I took my family to visit Mt. Vernon, Washington's beloved home.
October 7, 2012
I am giving this book two stars out of respect for the intent of the project. I am a political moderate who has often disagreed with Glenn Beck in the past. But I also recognize that he is a major media force and that, should he ever choose to use his powers for good and not evil, he could make important contributions to American political discourse. I had hoped that this book would be a start in that direction, and, in some ways, it is. In _Being George Washington_, Beck makes a good faith effort to step outside of the conservative ideology that has always animated him. Gone is his usual stridence and arrogance. Here, he deals generously with those he disagrees with, and he genuinely tries to present George Washington as a suitable model for Americans of all political persuasions. I applaud this effort and find little to disagree with on ideological grounds.
That said, it isn't a very good book.
It is hard to say what kind of book this is trying to be. The text fits into three distinct genre categories, any one of which could have made for a promising book about George Washington. The three categories are:
1. Historical Fiction: About 60% of the book could best be described as a historical novel written on the 5th-8th grade reading level. This novel deals very unevenly with Washington's life, beginning with the French and Indian War and focusing principally on the American Revolution before jumping to the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and and the Farewell Speech in 1796. I call this portion a novelization, rather than a biography, because the author goes frequently into the minds of the characters and pulls out thoughts and motivations that go well beyond what any biographer could surmise. Take the first sentence of the book: "The colonel's horse was terrified." It is the novelist, not the biographer, who knows what goes on in the mind of a character's horse.
There is nothing particularly objectionable about the novelization portion of the book, but neither is there anything remarkable. Much the same narrative could be found in any one of dozens of young adult versions of the George Washington story.
2. Historical Analysis: A second component of the book--one not clearly delineated from the first--aims to analyze the significance of George Washington's life for the modern reader. Again, there is little to object to here. Most of the analysis fits within the general set of platitudes that most people have about George Washington: the importance of conviction, the need for fixed principles, an abiding belief in the justness of one's cause--that sort of thing. Much of this analysis comes in somewhat annoying grey boxes plopped in the middle of the novelization with titles like "Thinking Outside the Eighteenth-Century Box" and "What If He Had Been King?"
3. Leadership Manual: Beck begins the book with the assertion that all Americans can "be George Washington," which is to say that everybody can, by studying Washington's leadership principles, be the kind of person that Washington was and make a positive difference in the world. To help us along, he pauses the novelized narrative every now and then to point out some aspect of Washington's leadership that we should strive to emulate. Once again, there is nothing earth shaking here--much the same ground has been covered in _George Washington on Leadership_ or _George Washington's Leadership Lessons_. From Beck, we learn that we should be on time, believe in God, be willing to compromise, and sweat the small stuff. Pretty basic, really, but it is always nice to have reminders.
As I said, any one of these elements could have made for an interesting book. And there are probably ways that they could have been combined together coherently to create something unique and interesting. Beck and his team, however, have simply thrown them together haphazardly with no real thought about how to give coherence to this odd collection of Washingtonian bric-a-brac. Almost everything that the book does is done much better in other (and less expensive) volumes, and the whole thing feels like uncorrelated notes that have been hastily assembled and placed between cardboard covers in time to make a Christmas killing--which, in fact, it is. The credits for _Being George Washington_ list six different people as writers and thirteen more as "contributors & researchers." Beck himself was simply the compiler of random bits of work that other people did. And it shows.
Ultimately, what this book shows us is that Glenn Beck has ceased to be a shrill ideological firebrand and become the floor supervisor of an assembly line. _Being George Washington_ was not written so much as it was assembled from the work of a team of writers and researchers with no real understanding of what the final product should look like. "Glenn Beck" (tm) is simply the brand name that guarantees book sales. I fully expect that this franchise will expand--that, in the next few years, we will see similar books on Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, and the other Founding Fathers. And from there: cat food, salad dressing, and beer. The good news is that the world has little to fear from Glenn Beck in the future. The bad news is that we have nothing to learn from him either.
That said, it isn't a very good book.
It is hard to say what kind of book this is trying to be. The text fits into three distinct genre categories, any one of which could have made for a promising book about George Washington. The three categories are:
1. Historical Fiction: About 60% of the book could best be described as a historical novel written on the 5th-8th grade reading level. This novel deals very unevenly with Washington's life, beginning with the French and Indian War and focusing principally on the American Revolution before jumping to the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and and the Farewell Speech in 1796. I call this portion a novelization, rather than a biography, because the author goes frequently into the minds of the characters and pulls out thoughts and motivations that go well beyond what any biographer could surmise. Take the first sentence of the book: "The colonel's horse was terrified." It is the novelist, not the biographer, who knows what goes on in the mind of a character's horse.
There is nothing particularly objectionable about the novelization portion of the book, but neither is there anything remarkable. Much the same narrative could be found in any one of dozens of young adult versions of the George Washington story.
2. Historical Analysis: A second component of the book--one not clearly delineated from the first--aims to analyze the significance of George Washington's life for the modern reader. Again, there is little to object to here. Most of the analysis fits within the general set of platitudes that most people have about George Washington: the importance of conviction, the need for fixed principles, an abiding belief in the justness of one's cause--that sort of thing. Much of this analysis comes in somewhat annoying grey boxes plopped in the middle of the novelization with titles like "Thinking Outside the Eighteenth-Century Box" and "What If He Had Been King?"
3. Leadership Manual: Beck begins the book with the assertion that all Americans can "be George Washington," which is to say that everybody can, by studying Washington's leadership principles, be the kind of person that Washington was and make a positive difference in the world. To help us along, he pauses the novelized narrative every now and then to point out some aspect of Washington's leadership that we should strive to emulate. Once again, there is nothing earth shaking here--much the same ground has been covered in _George Washington on Leadership_ or _George Washington's Leadership Lessons_. From Beck, we learn that we should be on time, believe in God, be willing to compromise, and sweat the small stuff. Pretty basic, really, but it is always nice to have reminders.
As I said, any one of these elements could have made for an interesting book. And there are probably ways that they could have been combined together coherently to create something unique and interesting. Beck and his team, however, have simply thrown them together haphazardly with no real thought about how to give coherence to this odd collection of Washingtonian bric-a-brac. Almost everything that the book does is done much better in other (and less expensive) volumes, and the whole thing feels like uncorrelated notes that have been hastily assembled and placed between cardboard covers in time to make a Christmas killing--which, in fact, it is. The credits for _Being George Washington_ list six different people as writers and thirteen more as "contributors & researchers." Beck himself was simply the compiler of random bits of work that other people did. And it shows.
Ultimately, what this book shows us is that Glenn Beck has ceased to be a shrill ideological firebrand and become the floor supervisor of an assembly line. _Being George Washington_ was not written so much as it was assembled from the work of a team of writers and researchers with no real understanding of what the final product should look like. "Glenn Beck" (tm) is simply the brand name that guarantees book sales. I fully expect that this franchise will expand--that, in the next few years, we will see similar books on Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, and the other Founding Fathers. And from there: cat food, salad dressing, and beer. The good news is that the world has little to fear from Glenn Beck in the future. The bad news is that we have nothing to learn from him either.
December 22, 2011
This is a historic novel and as such needs to be read with a grain of salt. There is a lot of narrative with many quotes - far too many for me to check out. he thing that this book does is take Washington off a pedestal and make him a person like you and me. Washington had many faults and short comings like any of us. He has been scrubbed and cleaned up over the years to make him almost pristine. Pristine, he was not.
He had a temper as a young man, but learned to overcome and control that. He lost battles. Indeed I learned separately - that one of the surveys he submitted and was paid for, was a copy of another man's work. That was when he was a 17 year old. Yes, he owned slaves, but that needs to be kept in the context of the times. And we should remember that he made provisions for all of them to be freed upon Martha's death. I will include a quote directly related to this issue at the end of the review.
The thing that comes across to me is that Washington evolved and learned and refined himself. Like you and me.
The thing I liked about the book was the Washington had some core values that kept him on track or brought him back, when he wandered. Most of us can readily relate to that.
As Beck points out, Washington was a person with the same foibles as the rest of us. He had a firey temper as a young man and spent considerable effort to develop control over it. Later, as a military officer he suffered a humiliating defeat near the future site of Pittsburgh during the French and Indian War. He also lost major battles as general of the Continential Army during the American Revolution.
It is important to note that he he learned from his mistakes and grew on the job by listening to the thoughts and perspectives of others - both fellow officers as well as regular soldiers. Basic management 101.
Washington was a Godly man and he relied on prayer a great deal. He believed deep in his soul that this country was founded by God and guided by Him.
It is important to remember that he did not wish to be president and did not wish to have a 2nd term, he refused to even consider a third term - unlike FDR. He believed that ordinary citizens were called upon to serve - for a period of time - then return to their regular lives. Nothing like our current crop of professional life long politicians. He literally could have been king if he had lusted for power. He did not.
The war kept him away from home for literally years at a time. This is true sacrifice, unlike we seen today.
Even after the war was over, he was not yet finished serving. No, he led the meeting that produced the the U.S. Constitution, replacing the inadequate Articles of Confederation.
Several different times he tried to retire from public life only to be called back, willingly responding when his nation needed him. He never took a salary for any of his public service. He voluntarily relinquished power after two terms as president (1789-97) having served as a constitutional executive with limited authority at a time when others wanted to make him king.
In my view he was selected by God to help create and lead this country. I firmly believe that God did direct the founding and building of this country. Lincoln was another one selected to lead in the time he did, for the reasons he led - to save the country that Washington helped to create.
I close with a quote . . . 'The name of Washington will live when the sculptured marble and statue of bronze shall be crumbled into dust - for it is the decree of the eternal God that "the righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance but the memorial of the wicked shall rot."
- Richard Allen, a former slave - from his eulogy of George Washington, 1799
He had a temper as a young man, but learned to overcome and control that. He lost battles. Indeed I learned separately - that one of the surveys he submitted and was paid for, was a copy of another man's work. That was when he was a 17 year old. Yes, he owned slaves, but that needs to be kept in the context of the times. And we should remember that he made provisions for all of them to be freed upon Martha's death. I will include a quote directly related to this issue at the end of the review.
The thing that comes across to me is that Washington evolved and learned and refined himself. Like you and me.
The thing I liked about the book was the Washington had some core values that kept him on track or brought him back, when he wandered. Most of us can readily relate to that.
As Beck points out, Washington was a person with the same foibles as the rest of us. He had a firey temper as a young man and spent considerable effort to develop control over it. Later, as a military officer he suffered a humiliating defeat near the future site of Pittsburgh during the French and Indian War. He also lost major battles as general of the Continential Army during the American Revolution.
It is important to note that he he learned from his mistakes and grew on the job by listening to the thoughts and perspectives of others - both fellow officers as well as regular soldiers. Basic management 101.
Washington was a Godly man and he relied on prayer a great deal. He believed deep in his soul that this country was founded by God and guided by Him.
It is important to remember that he did not wish to be president and did not wish to have a 2nd term, he refused to even consider a third term - unlike FDR. He believed that ordinary citizens were called upon to serve - for a period of time - then return to their regular lives. Nothing like our current crop of professional life long politicians. He literally could have been king if he had lusted for power. He did not.
The war kept him away from home for literally years at a time. This is true sacrifice, unlike we seen today.
Even after the war was over, he was not yet finished serving. No, he led the meeting that produced the the U.S. Constitution, replacing the inadequate Articles of Confederation.
Several different times he tried to retire from public life only to be called back, willingly responding when his nation needed him. He never took a salary for any of his public service. He voluntarily relinquished power after two terms as president (1789-97) having served as a constitutional executive with limited authority at a time when others wanted to make him king.
In my view he was selected by God to help create and lead this country. I firmly believe that God did direct the founding and building of this country. Lincoln was another one selected to lead in the time he did, for the reasons he led - to save the country that Washington helped to create.
I close with a quote . . . 'The name of Washington will live when the sculptured marble and statue of bronze shall be crumbled into dust - for it is the decree of the eternal God that "the righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance but the memorial of the wicked shall rot."
- Richard Allen, a former slave - from his eulogy of George Washington, 1799
September 27, 2012
Though there may be some who object to the style of the book: it is somewhat historical and somewhat Glenn's comments, the gist of the book is unmistakable: George Washington should be revered as the Father of our Country. I'm not exactly a slouch when it comes to history, but I never knew George Washington was quite as responsible as he was for guiding this country through its infancy both militarily, civilly, and congressionally. If there were ever a need for a man of honor and thought, George Washington was that man. His troops were fiercely loyal, his mere presence was enough to instill gravitas in Congress, and he was always thoughtful and humble, yet fierce and passionate in defending the nation he was willing to sacrifice everything for.
And we can all be George Washington.
And we can all be George Washington.
January 3, 2019
Being George Washington was not easy, even for the person who actually was George Washington. I understand the premise upon which the author wrote the book; however, I would like to aspire to become like the Person who Washington strove to emulate. (That Person is the Son of God, Jesus Christ.) Washington's faith gave him the strength to endure everything that He experienced in life. Some may say it was the 110 Rules for Civility that helped him to become the man he was. That is very true, but look more closely and you will find the Rules are built on or taken from Biblical text. The subject of the book was such a man of integrity and character, I believe he would not like someone trying to become more like him. George Washington was simply pointing to the One who is truly worth becoming modeled after. I definitely recommend this book.
February 19, 2012
I just finished Ron Chernow's bio of Washington, so Glenn's book was a bit repetitive. But, I will say, while Chernow's book was a beast and 960 pages (although thorough and complete), Beck's book will give you the leadership highlights of Washington's life in 250 pages - interspersed with Beck's own observations on these actions.
I liked that it really pulled the highlights of Washington's career - his honor, integrity, commitment to the revolution, perseverance and belief in God. I didn't like that it was written in a fictitious way (similar to the book A Paris Wife) - certainly there is no historical documents existing separately or together that truly outline the detail of the historical vignettes of this book. It is Beck taking liberty on giving life to the characters of this book (most notably Washington himself) and drawing the reader in to feel closer to the events of the day. But, that fell a little flat with me. (Although just having read a more historically accurate account of GW's life, I will say that the say stories were contained within, but just written in a different style and not annotated to any historical docs.)
Beck's summary chapters are typical Beck - hitting all his points.
I did enjoy the book. I think that for those who are looking to improve their leadership skills or to learn some of the high points of Washington's career, it would be a good read. It is a self-help, leadership book, not a biography or true historical account.
I liked that it really pulled the highlights of Washington's career - his honor, integrity, commitment to the revolution, perseverance and belief in God. I didn't like that it was written in a fictitious way (similar to the book A Paris Wife) - certainly there is no historical documents existing separately or together that truly outline the detail of the historical vignettes of this book. It is Beck taking liberty on giving life to the characters of this book (most notably Washington himself) and drawing the reader in to feel closer to the events of the day. But, that fell a little flat with me. (Although just having read a more historically accurate account of GW's life, I will say that the say stories were contained within, but just written in a different style and not annotated to any historical docs.)
Beck's summary chapters are typical Beck - hitting all his points.
I did enjoy the book. I think that for those who are looking to improve their leadership skills or to learn some of the high points of Washington's career, it would be a good read. It is a self-help, leadership book, not a biography or true historical account.
April 22, 2012
Being George Washington has much to like and much to dislike. The historical details about Washington's life were very interesting and kept me coming back to the book. The presentation of history in story format was fairly readable. However, Beck's moralizing was predictable and uninspiring. The Washington presented in this book was such a great man, he deserved much better.
Additionally, the book's layout was incredibly distracting. The flow was broken up by a ridiculous number of inset sections of text. Those items should have appeared in a sidebar so as not to disrupt the flow of the text but instead they were place in the middle of the text. The items of this type were so frequent and so voluminous they made the book a chore to read. I had to discipline myself to ignore them and follow the text even if that meant skipping pages.
If you are a good multi-tasker and can follow multiple threads, you will probably enjoy this book. If you tend to be easily distracted, it will undoubtedly be a difficult read.
Additionally, the book's layout was incredibly distracting. The flow was broken up by a ridiculous number of inset sections of text. Those items should have appeared in a sidebar so as not to disrupt the flow of the text but instead they were place in the middle of the text. The items of this type were so frequent and so voluminous they made the book a chore to read. I had to discipline myself to ignore them and follow the text even if that meant skipping pages.
If you are a good multi-tasker and can follow multiple threads, you will probably enjoy this book. If you tend to be easily distracted, it will undoubtedly be a difficult read.
January 30, 2012
This was a fantastic book by Glenn. The point being made is relevant and realistic. With some creative writing and intensive research. I loved the idea that we can make out Nation a better place and one more in line with the original vision of the Father of American Freedom. Liberty was a bulwark President Washington's stand against the British. Glenn does not try to hide Washington's faults or warts. In facts, he lovingly points out the failures and faults that Washington himself claimed to struggle with. He dispenses with the nonsense taught to every child about the Cherry Tree, and instead shows a picture of a man conflicted and virtuous. Strong and yet weak all at the same time. Glenn Beck provides us with a path to becoming better citizens and better people.
February 1, 2012
I was given this book as a Christmas present. Given my previous encounters with Beck's work, I don't know that I had any high expectations of what I would find. I find that the more I listen to Beck the more I disagree with him.
That being said, there are some things in which we do agree, and one of them is that George Washington really was an indispensable man because he had virtue. Beck's book is an examination of the life of this man and how virtuous thought and action made this man what he really was. And the book describes various episodes in the life of Washington in which those virtues were demonstrated. Beck details events from Washington's life as he tried to join the navy, fought in the French and Indian War, fought again in the American Revolution, struggled with his attempts to avoid involvement as the Articles of Confederation proved ever more ineffective, and as he lay dying in his bed.
Notably absent is a good deal of Washington's administration as our nation's first president. Beck describes the events leading up to the Constitution very well, but then he skips over Washington's administration and goes straight to the review of his farewell address. But most of Washington's life in other time periods is also left out. Washington's first campaign outside Boston is not even mentioned, and his eventual retreat from New York is given a mere reference.
The point of the book is not to detail a biography of Washington but to extol the virtues that made him that man that he was. And I learned some things about Washington's life that I did not before understand. Beck demonstrates with quotes from original sources that Washington believed in God and that the American nation was founded by God; he often referenced the Invisible Hand that guided and preserved him and his fellow patriots. Washington was a razor's edge away from dealing with a mutiny among his own officers, and yet because his exercise of virtue had gained so much trust with his men he was able to speak to them and avert what might have been a real disaster.
The divisive nature of the political arguments in this country are driving us ever further apart. We are fracturing on both sides of the aisle. What I like about Beck's book --- though I don't always agree with him politically --- is that the gulf that divides us can be bridged if we all have virtue, and particularly the same virtues that Washington exemplified throughout his life. It is for that reason that I recommend the book. We can still disagree about policy if are united in virtuous principles, because those principles lived create trust and honor and respect. Take those away and you get what we have today, rhetoric that is not only divisive but outright hateful. The best way to proclaim peace is to proclaim virtue, and Beck shows by using the life of Washington as an example that the best way to proclaim virtue is to live it.
That being said, there are some things in which we do agree, and one of them is that George Washington really was an indispensable man because he had virtue. Beck's book is an examination of the life of this man and how virtuous thought and action made this man what he really was. And the book describes various episodes in the life of Washington in which those virtues were demonstrated. Beck details events from Washington's life as he tried to join the navy, fought in the French and Indian War, fought again in the American Revolution, struggled with his attempts to avoid involvement as the Articles of Confederation proved ever more ineffective, and as he lay dying in his bed.
Notably absent is a good deal of Washington's administration as our nation's first president. Beck describes the events leading up to the Constitution very well, but then he skips over Washington's administration and goes straight to the review of his farewell address. But most of Washington's life in other time periods is also left out. Washington's first campaign outside Boston is not even mentioned, and his eventual retreat from New York is given a mere reference.
The point of the book is not to detail a biography of Washington but to extol the virtues that made him that man that he was. And I learned some things about Washington's life that I did not before understand. Beck demonstrates with quotes from original sources that Washington believed in God and that the American nation was founded by God; he often referenced the Invisible Hand that guided and preserved him and his fellow patriots. Washington was a razor's edge away from dealing with a mutiny among his own officers, and yet because his exercise of virtue had gained so much trust with his men he was able to speak to them and avert what might have been a real disaster.
The divisive nature of the political arguments in this country are driving us ever further apart. We are fracturing on both sides of the aisle. What I like about Beck's book --- though I don't always agree with him politically --- is that the gulf that divides us can be bridged if we all have virtue, and particularly the same virtues that Washington exemplified throughout his life. It is for that reason that I recommend the book. We can still disagree about policy if are united in virtuous principles, because those principles lived create trust and honor and respect. Take those away and you get what we have today, rhetoric that is not only divisive but outright hateful. The best way to proclaim peace is to proclaim virtue, and Beck shows by using the life of Washington as an example that the best way to proclaim virtue is to live it.
February 25, 2012
This book is a novelization of history. Rather than just sequential action based on facts or at the very least likely facts, we get a lot of fluff and unnecessary interpretations of said facts. The reasoning behind this as stated in the author's note is because Beck doesn't want you to just read about Valley Forge or Yorktown, he wants you to live it. Good intentions, poor execution. And by fluff I mean statements such as: “His chest tightened in frustration. It was becoming a familiar feeling.” In which he is referring to G. Washington. There are many sentences and paragraphs like this with meaningless action that does not extend or stir the plot. I get that these kinds of statements are supposed to help the reader “live” the story, but it just doesn’t work for me. Also, there are far too many quotes which could be better dealt with using explanation rather than quotations – this would give greater credibility to the book in general. When it comes to writing, clear and concise is best, especially since this is a historical perspective. I would have been happier if it were 80 pages shorter. Okay, I probably would have still hated it, but I would have at least had to skim through less. Beck took one too many literary risks with this one and instead of enhancing the outcome, he only garbled it beyond all clarity and truth.
If you are really interested in unbiased American History, I advise you to look elsewhere.
If you are really interested in unbiased American History, I advise you to look elsewhere.
September 18, 2018
A different take on a biography. Beck samples Washington's life and gives examples on how each of us can aspire to be more like Washington. Not that Washington was perfect, but he excelled in leadership, determination, and courteousness, among other qualities. All of these things seem in short supply today. My only complaint is that the book jumped around a bit as far as chronological order--but that was not the intent of the book. Beck does a good job of putting the reader in Washington's mindset. Beck includes several Washington quotes in the appendices, as well as historical timeline of the major events in Washington's life.
December 5, 2011
This is how nonfiction should be written! Written with the help of 17 researchers this is a great book relieving the reason why people called Washington "the indispensable man." I read through it like it was fiction. Amazing stories that I constantly said why didn't I know that. Well done and I hope more people write history like that.
April 13, 2012
If you think this is a history book, you're very wrong! Beck highlights major events in Washington's life, putting the reader into the action in first person, as if you're experiencing that moment yourself: intense battle scenes, excruciating heartbreak upon being betrayed...everything. The book read like an historical action novel, but with Beck's self-help advice added in here and there. The whole premise of this book is to see George Washington more intimately - the youth he was, the young adult, the celebrated, regal General of the Continental Army, and the stoic, wise leader of our country - and try to be like him through his life lessons learned.
I loved it. But I loved it because I believe Washington was prepared and ordained by powers from on high to be the one to lead our patriots to victory, to accomplish what had never been done before, to not only give years of his life to military service, but political service as well, lest our country destroy itself in the infancy of its freedom. And he did all this in his own humble, quiet, unassuming way. Had his character or virtues been any different, we may have been speaking with English accents today. Believe what you will - the facts are there, and I choose to see heaven-sent miracles (through Washington's humble guidance) that led the way for our country's freedom.
(I did feel that Beck should have at least cited some historical references - for such detailed dramatic narratives, I'd love to see where he got such information. I'm sure he took some fictional liberties, but dates, times, people, places, and personal accounts couldn't be ignored. Sources??)
I truly enjoyed learning these lessons Beck gleaned from Washington's life - lessons the great (but human!) man himself learned: (if you want to know what events led to these lessons, read the book! you won't be disappointed!)
1. cultivate character - it will garner trust from everyone around you
2. be creative and open-minded - GW was the "melting pot" that became America
3. always be on guard - from greed, and yourself!
4. honor does not waver in the wind
5. be willing to listen to others, even your so-called subordinates
6. no one man can do it all (that's why we need #2 and #5)
7. HOW you win matters just as much as the fact that you DID win
8. prepare for your moment
9. embrace our imperfection by constantly searching for truth
10. question with boldness
11. persistance and determination win the day (and the respect of others)
12. don't let the "perfect" be the enemy of the good
If only our country's political leaders could have an inkling of Washington's character and civility! Whether you like Beck or not, his case is put forth - were we (and our country's leaders) more like the man Washington was, we'd be much better off. Read this book!
I loved it. But I loved it because I believe Washington was prepared and ordained by powers from on high to be the one to lead our patriots to victory, to accomplish what had never been done before, to not only give years of his life to military service, but political service as well, lest our country destroy itself in the infancy of its freedom. And he did all this in his own humble, quiet, unassuming way. Had his character or virtues been any different, we may have been speaking with English accents today. Believe what you will - the facts are there, and I choose to see heaven-sent miracles (through Washington's humble guidance) that led the way for our country's freedom.
(I did feel that Beck should have at least cited some historical references - for such detailed dramatic narratives, I'd love to see where he got such information. I'm sure he took some fictional liberties, but dates, times, people, places, and personal accounts couldn't be ignored. Sources??)
I truly enjoyed learning these lessons Beck gleaned from Washington's life - lessons the great (but human!) man himself learned: (if you want to know what events led to these lessons, read the book! you won't be disappointed!)
1. cultivate character - it will garner trust from everyone around you
2. be creative and open-minded - GW was the "melting pot" that became America
3. always be on guard - from greed, and yourself!
4. honor does not waver in the wind
5. be willing to listen to others, even your so-called subordinates
6. no one man can do it all (that's why we need #2 and #5)
7. HOW you win matters just as much as the fact that you DID win
8. prepare for your moment
9. embrace our imperfection by constantly searching for truth
10. question with boldness
11. persistance and determination win the day (and the respect of others)
12. don't let the "perfect" be the enemy of the good
If only our country's political leaders could have an inkling of Washington's character and civility! Whether you like Beck or not, his case is put forth - were we (and our country's leaders) more like the man Washington was, we'd be much better off. Read this book!
February 11, 2012
This book is part-history, part-self-help/motivational, part-adventure. It tends to blur the line a bit between history and non-fiction novel.
The good thing about reading a history book like this is that it is nowhere near as boring as a text book from a history class in grade school or college. It's a quick read, you'll learn some new things, and you'll retain more because it is a chronological narrative (i.e., the connections from one point to another are easily made and kept in your mind).
The bad thing is: it's a quick read. Since you'll be done reading it quickly, you'll feel like stuff has been left out (something, perhaps, that your history teacher would have gone on about for days but would have bored you stiff).
It should also be noted that this is not, strictly speaking, a history book or straight biography. As I said before, it is part motivational reading. Every other chapter is Glenn's interpretation of what you just read in the previous chapter and how it relates to our times and to the person reading the book (i.e., "lessons to learn from this"). Even if you agree with Beck, it can make the book feel, at times, like an after-school special or a "one to grow on" PSA in the middle of Saturday morning cartoons.
That said, it'll whet your appetite to learn more about Washington, the founding of our country, and the people involved - much like when you first meet someone and start dating them to get to know them better. However, I imagine most of the other books about Washington (or history in general) may seem even more dry and boring than before - kinda like wanting to know more about your dream girl just to discover that her family and friends are the most lame people in Dullsylvania. This book, her family has interesting stories to tell, but they also get preachy after each story, telling you what they think you should take away from each anecdote they share.
Maybe I'm just jaded by hating history class in high school, only to become really interested in history and politics in my 30s, but that's how I feel about this book. It seems like a great introductory book (perhaps a bit too homiletic), but I'm afraid of being let down by other books.
The good thing about reading a history book like this is that it is nowhere near as boring as a text book from a history class in grade school or college. It's a quick read, you'll learn some new things, and you'll retain more because it is a chronological narrative (i.e., the connections from one point to another are easily made and kept in your mind).
The bad thing is: it's a quick read. Since you'll be done reading it quickly, you'll feel like stuff has been left out (something, perhaps, that your history teacher would have gone on about for days but would have bored you stiff).
It should also be noted that this is not, strictly speaking, a history book or straight biography. As I said before, it is part motivational reading. Every other chapter is Glenn's interpretation of what you just read in the previous chapter and how it relates to our times and to the person reading the book (i.e., "lessons to learn from this"). Even if you agree with Beck, it can make the book feel, at times, like an after-school special or a "one to grow on" PSA in the middle of Saturday morning cartoons.
That said, it'll whet your appetite to learn more about Washington, the founding of our country, and the people involved - much like when you first meet someone and start dating them to get to know them better. However, I imagine most of the other books about Washington (or history in general) may seem even more dry and boring than before - kinda like wanting to know more about your dream girl just to discover that her family and friends are the most lame people in Dullsylvania. This book, her family has interesting stories to tell, but they also get preachy after each story, telling you what they think you should take away from each anecdote they share.
Maybe I'm just jaded by hating history class in high school, only to become really interested in history and politics in my 30s, but that's how I feel about this book. It seems like a great introductory book (perhaps a bit too homiletic), but I'm afraid of being let down by other books.
June 11, 2012
A biography of George Washington from Glenn Beck - 3.5 stars. This is an interesting history with some fictionalization of conversations to make it more readable. It follows Washington's life from the Revolutionary war, thru his presidency, and on to his death - with flashbacks to his early life so we can see how lessons learned in his youth helped him later in life.
In the end, this is somewhere between a love letter to Washington and a self help book to encourage the reader to be more like Washington. Beck's method of telling the story is to tell the reader about an incident in Washington's life, then provide a lesson about what we can learn from that incident - both about Washington, and about how we should live today. As a format, it is not much different from Jesus telling parables, then explaining what they mean. It was a system that worked 2000 years ago for Jesus, and it is still effective today for Glenn.
As a pure history, this is not the first book I would recommend but as guidance about living a better life, it serves quite well - and throws in some education and entertainment to boot.
It is worth noting that this was an audio book and it reinforces my displeasure with audio. It is too easy to get involved with something else while "reading" and miss whole sections. That means either skipping the missed part, or going back and listening to it again. Listening to a book requires the same attention to the text that actually reading requires - and if I had the time for that, I would be reading not listening.
In the end, this is somewhere between a love letter to Washington and a self help book to encourage the reader to be more like Washington. Beck's method of telling the story is to tell the reader about an incident in Washington's life, then provide a lesson about what we can learn from that incident - both about Washington, and about how we should live today. As a format, it is not much different from Jesus telling parables, then explaining what they mean. It was a system that worked 2000 years ago for Jesus, and it is still effective today for Glenn.
As a pure history, this is not the first book I would recommend but as guidance about living a better life, it serves quite well - and throws in some education and entertainment to boot.
It is worth noting that this was an audio book and it reinforces my displeasure with audio. It is too easy to get involved with something else while "reading" and miss whole sections. That means either skipping the missed part, or going back and listening to it again. Listening to a book requires the same attention to the text that actually reading requires - and if I had the time for that, I would be reading not listening.
November 12, 2013
Your Go-to-book on George Washington.
This is not even close to being an exhaustive study into the life of George Washington, if you want that read, The Real George Washington.
The reason for this book is to provide highlights and insights into the life and character of The Indispensable Man. What aspects of his character inspire morality and virtue in others? Read this book.
It's not in any particular order, but tries to stay linear. The idea is how did George Washington handle this crisis or that? Answer: genuine and deep faith in God, unflagging determination, humility, hard work, leading by example, and constant prayer.
The parts of George Washington's history progressives have been most vigorous to remove are his acts of faith. We've been told that he was a deist; that's a lie. George Washington prayed constantly. People ridicule the Biddle story, that it was impossible for him to see George Washington in prayer when he did. There may be some confusion in time and situation, but spotting George Washington in prayer was something that dozens of people credibly report.
That is just one aspect of his life overlooked. Ice cream is another. His great compassion towards his fellow men, even enemies. And, the way he handled power! Let's just say that if every President, and not just the few who did, followed his example, we'd be in a much better place today.
Would George Washington want us to be him? No, he'd want us to be Christ-like, as he strove to be.
Lots of handy quotes and other inspiring tidbits that will keep me going to this book for inspiration.
This is not even close to being an exhaustive study into the life of George Washington, if you want that read, The Real George Washington.
The reason for this book is to provide highlights and insights into the life and character of The Indispensable Man. What aspects of his character inspire morality and virtue in others? Read this book.
It's not in any particular order, but tries to stay linear. The idea is how did George Washington handle this crisis or that? Answer: genuine and deep faith in God, unflagging determination, humility, hard work, leading by example, and constant prayer.
The parts of George Washington's history progressives have been most vigorous to remove are his acts of faith. We've been told that he was a deist; that's a lie. George Washington prayed constantly. People ridicule the Biddle story, that it was impossible for him to see George Washington in prayer when he did. There may be some confusion in time and situation, but spotting George Washington in prayer was something that dozens of people credibly report.
That is just one aspect of his life overlooked. Ice cream is another. His great compassion towards his fellow men, even enemies. And, the way he handled power! Let's just say that if every President, and not just the few who did, followed his example, we'd be in a much better place today.
Would George Washington want us to be him? No, he'd want us to be Christ-like, as he strove to be.
Lots of handy quotes and other inspiring tidbits that will keep me going to this book for inspiration.
March 14, 2012
The content of this book references a better history book, "The Real George Washington." While some of the material in Glenn Beck's book is interesting and not well known to the American public, about a third of the text is given to name-calling and too much emotional manipulation. The book encourages everyone to follow the example of George Washington, which is an admirable thing to do, but the President was not a name-caller. The story also leaves out the facts that Martha Washington (Patsy) came to stay with the Washington at Valley Forge and that he made much more money than some other military officers, because he used an accounts book (of which I have a copy) and was reimbursed higher actual expenses, rather than accepting a commission or salary. I think Washington had integrity and was also smart. I think that emotional manipulation for political gain or for prodding The People into protesting and into voting in certain ways to cut taxes for authors and television info-tainers as they think they are doing it for themselves, is something to train the public to ignore. Washington sought advise but thought for himself. So should we all and then we will "be George Washington."
January 18, 2012
Very insightful book on the life of George Washington and how we can apply the principles he lived by in our everyday lives. Recalling the various roles and situations Washington faces, Glenn Beck gives us a realistic view on Washington's reactions and choices during the pivotal beginnings of our country. Standing up for what is right is not an easy path, but Washington walked this path. Beck's goal is to share these historical incidents and describe how we can live out the same values. I would highly recommend this book.
February 7, 2012
This was a painful book to read, I finally quit about 75% of the way through. Beck synthesizes a narrative that is a terrible combination of inspiration, speculation, political opinion, and religious zeal. The pattern of the book is (1) chronological story sprinkled with tongue-in-cheek political remarks, (2) description of how amazing Washington is compared to his contemporaries, (3) attempt to relate Washington's triumphs to those of our own, (4) and an awe-stricken sense of how much God was on his side; lather, rinse, repeat.
October 3, 2012
I finished on a trip I took back to Boston. It was a great read. I had a hard time putting it down.
I am not sure if the author had intended the outcome I received.. but it was good.
I say the tale of two men and their intentions. It then challenged me. What am I intential about. and is my intentions set on helping the generations after me? or is my intentions only about my little domain, heaven forbid.
I am not sure if the author had intended the outcome I received.. but it was good.
I say the tale of two men and their intentions. It then challenged me. What am I intential about. and is my intentions set on helping the generations after me? or is my intentions only about my little domain, heaven forbid.
March 2, 2013
I really liked the book and wish I could give it a higher rating but parts of it were inaccurate and the few sections where G. Beck obviously wrote were mostly annoying. The authors take issue of revisionist history but then practice it! George Washington was the man, perhaps the greatest American but this book made it sound as if he was perfect, we all know there is only one perfect person (me) :)
December 6, 2011
Most of these stories were not new to me as I have studied the life of Washington, but what a wonderful reminder of a great man. It is written in such a way as to compare our times with his and to help us determine what we can do to be more like him.
January 10, 2012
An uplifting confirmation of what a great man George Washington really was. Did edge a desire to step outside myself to be a better citizen. A very easy read. I enjoyed this book and the time it took to absorb its message,
January 31, 2012
Glenn is Glenn but he didn't rant too much. Much of Washington's story we should know if we grew up in the 50/60s. If not, this would be recommended. As it is, there was enough new stuff to made it well worth my while to read. "One nation under God."
October 26, 2013
Well I learned a lot about George Washington that I didn't know. He truly was the one to be the father of our country. Beck also challenges us to maybe take a leaf from his book and be a better self. It gave me some food for thought and made me want to be a better person.
February 2, 2012
WE NEED MORE GEORGE WASHINGTONS! The more I read the more I am inspired by this man. LOVE Glenn's perspective. I want to be like George Washington.
July 7, 2017
Conservative commentator and radio talk show host Glenn Beck looks at the life of George Washington and the lessons that can be learned from him in Being George Washington: The Indispensable Man, as You’ve Never Seen. Beginning with his days in the Virginia militia fighting with the British in the French and Indian War, the book follows Washington’s career as a general, statesman, and president. However, it’s not a straight historical retrospective, as Beck breaks in periodically to relate the moral of each chapter of Washington’s life; which is actually rather disruptive to the narrative flow, almost as if two different books by different writers were being mishmashes together. Which isn’t to say that either is poorly written or that Beck’s commentary isn’t interesting; in fact, the historical accounts can be quite gripping and the commentary insightful. Another issue is Beck’s underlining thesis about how the average American can be George Washington, which seems tacked on and contrived. Being George Washington: The Indispensable Man, as You’ve Never Seen is a bit clunky and scattershot, but overall it presents a fascinating portrait of this nation’s founding father.
July 27, 2020
Excellent biography of George Washington. I have read a lot of book specifically on Washington, as well as on the American Revolution where Washington is one of the key players. Every time I read about him I get a bit more information, a little different angle or perspective. In this book, Beck does an excellent job of talking about Washington as a person - his character, his beliefs, his personality, and what drove and motivated him to do the things he did, and to be able to achieve all that he did. He gives you a great insight into the person, as well as making history come alive from Washington's perspective. Excellent book if you enjoy American History. And especially in today's times, I wish more people would read more about it.
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