John Adams, the Writer: A Treasury of Letters, Diaries, and Public Documents

by Carolyn P. Yoder (Compiler)

John Adams, the first vice president and the second president of the United States, found that the best way to explore his ideas was to put pen to paper. Adams served as a Massachusetts delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses. His ideas on American liberty led the way to independence. In this rich and revealing collection, illustrated with photographs, prints, paintings, and artifacts, Carolyn Yoder has selected writings that chart the life and ideas of John Adams, from his years as a schoolteacher and lawyer to diplomat and president and to the period of his long retirement, a highlight of which was his correspondence with Thomas Jefferson. We see Adams the diplomat, maneuvering his way through Europe. We also find Adams the man, devoted husband of Abigail and father of John Quincy Adams, the sixth U.S. president. Entries from diaries and journals, along with excerpts from letters and speeches, form an intimate portrait of a man driven by ambition and plagued by self-doubt.

Genres: History

144 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2007

Reviews

[bjneary · Rating 3 out of 5]

John Adams life is arranged chronologically with his letters, diaries and public documents. Photographs, paintings are essential. Interesting and will give students a glimpse into the private John Adams whose words today are still read and enjoyed. Includes a chronology, resources, places to visit and an index.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't much care for the manner in which this editor portrayed Adams.