31 of 31 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good Biography for the Masses, April 16, 2001
This review is from: In Pursuit of Reason: The Life of Thomas Jefferson (Paperback)
This book has received unwarranted bad reviews and press simply because it is 'short.' Noble E. Cunningham's purpose, it seems, for this biography of Jefferson, was to present the essential life of Jefferson in such a way that all could enjoy. There have been so many biographies written on Jefferson and most are massive multi- volumes which can come across as very daunting to the average reader.
However, this book, while very well researched and authoritative in its content, is a biography which can be read by the average Joe and the scholar alike. Cunningham's research is very well documented, and the book is put together systematically from "The Formative Years" to "The Final Legacy." So, in a brief space, one can read this volume and learn the essential/perennial events which occurred in Jefferson's life. Moreover, Cunningham delves a little into Jefferson's personal affairs, such as his lost first love - Rebecca Burwell, to his admiration for Patrick Henry. Cunningham also details Jefferson's early intellectual influences and his love for law. In fact, in 349 pages of text, the most crucial and important events which occurred, and have been documented, in Jefferson's life are present in this text.
Therefore, Cunningham's attempt in writing this size biography was not to press his reader down in certain detail. Rather, Cunningham attempted to present a Jefferson which could be widely read by most anyone. His efforts are noble and successful on that level.
However, it must be stated that if you are wanting an intricately more detailed work of Jefferson, then this book will only wet your appetite for more. There are other biographies available (massive multi- volumes) for one to delve much deeper. But here, Cunningham just simply lets his reader know some of the most crucial events and facts. That being the case, this is a good book to begin your research and study of Thomas Jefferson.
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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Above average for one volume, June 1, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: In Pursuit of Reason: The Life of Thomas Jefferson (Paperback)
Highly condensed version of Jefferson's life, but very readable. Leaves out of the behind the scenes happenings, and intergal family life, especially of grandchildren. Good stater book for someone interested the Jefferson.
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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
A interesting read and insight into the life and times, February 7, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: In Pursuit of Reason: The Life of Thomas Jefferson (Paperback)
Enjoyed this book, especially the focus given to the changing relationship between Alexander Hamilton and Jefferson over the years. Enjoyed learning about the relationship between Jefferson, Madison and Monroe.
Good background and insight into the forming of the first political parties (Federalists and Republicans) as well as insight into the political tactics and "spin" each party used to advance it's agenda. Many parallels are evident to the political tactics used by the Democratic and Republican parties of today.
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