Adult Summer Reading Patron Reviews: Books About History

We're at the end of our Summer Reading Program, and I thought we'd wrap up with a selection of patron reviews on history books. We've got some on American history, one on slavery, one about women, one on Tolkien, and another on Worcester County. Sit back and enjoy the reviews, reflect on all the great books you read this summer, and stay tuned for our next program that starts on September 1st.

Until next time, happy reading!

American Moonshot: John F. Kennedy and the Great Space Race
By Douglas Brinkley
The author's focus is on the political machinations behind America's race to the moon. He credits John F. Kennedy, an immensely popular and persuasive president, with providing the impetus for funding the expensive, and some said impractical endeavor. Kennedy, as well as many other Americans were motivated by the belief that beating the Russians in the race for space, was a verdict in favor of the superiority of the capitalist system over communism. Ancient history now.

~Joy H.

In the Shadow of Liberty : The Hidden History of Slavery, Four Presidents, and Five Black Lives 
By Kenneth C. Davis 
This book was so amazing that I listened to it all in one day. I would highly recommend it.

~Debra L.

Tolkien and the Great War : The Threshold of Middle-Earth
By John Garth
In 1914 Britain entered World War I, the "Great War". One year later, after completing his university degree, J.R.R. Tolkien enlisted in the army and was eventually stationed in France, participating in the long Battle of the Somme. Though he was lucky and survived, most of his closest circle of friends did not. John Garth explores how Tolkien used his experiences of friendship, warfare and spiritual growth in a time of utter despair to write his own myths for the 20th century, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Very interesting book with lots of information for fans of history and of Tolkien.

~Mary R.

The Quartet: Orchestrating the Second American Revolution, 1783-1789
By Joseph J. Ellis
An excellent look at the four major men that created the Constitution and Bill of Rights in 1787. People know that George Washington was the general during the Revolution and our first president, but without his presence and image the meetings to create the constitution likely never happen. James Madison is considered the father of the constitution, and we see his almost maniacal preparation in hopes of being prepared for every possible scenario. Alexander Hamilton had an almost superhuman ability to work and produce writings and reports, and this both proved an asset and liability. John Jay is the often forgotten one, but his role is no less important. Very readable without being juvenile, and a truly quality historical look at an essential moment in this country. I highly recommend this book.

~Cameron L.

Once-Told Tales of Worcester County
Albert B. Southwick
It's an interesting read, some chapters more than others. I find that the author is a bit dry, but the tales of the land we live on are so interesting, how could you not love to read more? From learning about the murderous early days of Rutland to the woman buried in Green Hill Park, there's lots of fascinating information about our local past in this book.

~Loni P.

American Women's History--An A to Z of People, Organizations, Issues, and Events
By Doris Weatherford
This was a very informative book. Things that I did not even know were made known to me. Nearly 700 entries, organized alphabetically, document women's contributions to civil and equal rights, science, and the arts. It provides a new perspective on American women's historical legacy. This is a powerful reminder that behind, and often in front of, every historical event of major significance stands a woman or women. 😊

~Valdajean J.