John and Abigail Adams

by Judith St. George

Examines the historical importance of the marriage between John Adams, the second president of the United States, and his wife Abigail, who was well known for speaking out against slavery and for women's rights.

Genres: History, Biography, Nonfiction, American History, Middle Grade, American Revolution

32 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2001

Reviews

[Karen GoatKeeper · Rating 4 out of 5]

President John Adams is often only remembered in history texts for the Alien and Sedition Acts. He did so much more for the country. He was also married to Abigail Smith Adams for 54 years.
John and Abigail depended on each other for spiritual, emotional and physical support throughout their marriage. He began as a lawyer, but soon entered the political arena first as one of the 'founding fathers', later as ambassador, then President and, finally, as the father of a President. He could have done little of this with out his "Friend" Abigail who ran the farm, raised the children, kept the finances and endured the years of separation John's career forced on her.
This little book is full of details about these interesting people who lived in interesting times. It is enjoyable to read. It doesn't ignore some of the failings, intrigues, pettiness of those living then. It does leave the reader with a better understanding of who John Adams was and the international forces that shaped both him and his administration.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

"John & Abigail Adams: An American Love Story" by Judith St. George should be reading material for 5th or 8th graders who study the American Revolutionary time period. This book brings to life how early Americans lived. Even though the Adams may have been perceived to be wealthy, the did go through their times of hardship. Disease knows no monetary bounds, extreme exhaustion beats down even those with wealth, and those who are wealthy also worked physically hard to keep farms and businesses functioning. In addition, the book brings to life the duration of "travel" as the Adams did not see each other for years when John Adams went to Europe. At one point, the parents had not seen their son in over five years. As I said, this book shows the reader what life was like, even the well-off had very difficult times financially, health-wise and personally. The Adams did have the true American Love Story, but not the kind that would gross out middle schoolers! ha!

[Jakki · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful love story of the 2nd president and his very supportive, independent wife who raised the children and was not afraid to speak her mind! They were often separated for long periods of time due to his job. The letters they exchanged during those long separations revealed honesty, respect and a true friendship. They were married 54 years so must have been doing something right!

[Carol Albert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love to read young adult nonfiction to get some good information quickly. This volume is over-sized, and a bit over 100 pages. John Adams was our second president. Before that, he was George Washington's vice president. Before that, he was one of the most influential Founding Fathers, contributing to authoring our Constitution. Before that, he was a farmer. Abigail is remembered for counseling her husband in a letter to remember "the ladies" in the Constitution. (They did not.) She was very intelligent and knowledgeable about politics, but she was self-educated, a fact that she always resented. The couple kept a constant stram of letters going, since they were often separate due to John's political work. This book gives us some good insight into life in general during the 1700's, and during the beginning days of the United States of America. Did you know there wasn't a popular election AT ALL at first?

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was interesting to read a book that gives a personal perspective on incidents surrounding the American revolution and the years following when the U.S. government was established. I was so touched by the family values and love within the Adams' marriage in spite of years of separation. I like the way the author showed Abigail's strong support for the revolution and her husband's involvement while still being strong-willed enough to voice her own opinion. John was such a strong leader, but he struggled being away from home and his beloved Abigail. Overall, they relied heavily on each other for moral support. This is a good choice for anyone interested in history.

[Tess · Rating 3 out of 5]

As Nicole mentioned when she gave me this book, it's meant for a younger audience. It's a great read though, and has a ton of information crammed into such a short little book. My only criticism is probably that it's really less about their love than it is about the timeline of their lives. I'd have liked to have seen more excerpts from their letters and more commentary on the relationship itself.

[RuthAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredible story of Abigail and John and the sacrifices they made to make this nation great! It helped me realize their hardships were similar to what we face. See what you think.

[Rusticgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, If I was to choose one non-fiction to ever buy or to ever read again, this book would be it.