The author carefully engages the reader with the hope of bringing them into the vast chronological narrative that is the birth of America. Thankfully, he does not attempt to dumb down the language. His insights and analysis of the world slavery issue as it existed during and subsequent to the founding is balanced with neither the trite blaming of the founders, so prevalent in today's writings, nor the hand wringing apologies that never address the true reasons America allowed slavery or how quickly we expelled it after we became a constitutional republic. An excellent read for one who seeks a fairly in depth look at our founding without slogging through volumes of tedious detail.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
This is a good history book for home schooling. It is nice as a non-Cultural Marxist alternative to mainstream textbook publishers and their Howard Zinnian textbooks that are aimed mainly at hating everyone and everything associated with America's founding. McClay does a fine job of telling the American story without being a pushover but, at the same time, attempting to teach and not indoctrinate. The hardcover can be difficult to obtain, but the soft cover or even the e-book is a good value. I recommend the book along with Mary Grabar's "Debunking Howard Zinn" as important and interesting additions to one's history library.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
A large and thorough introduction to our nation's history, written in narrative form as opposed to textbook format. I've just begun but already I appreciate the author's style of writing, clear and lyrical at times. I'm way beyond my school days when I hated history class but as an American adult now, I've been searching for a good overview without any political bias, either way. Facts, but not presented in a dry as dust style. I think I've found it in this book. It's a big book which seems a little daunting but I have a feeling that once I sit down, I'll have a hard time pulling away from it at bedtime. Recommended highly for all Americans high-school aged and beyond. Especially recommended for adults like me who love our country but have forgotten so much since days in school.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Captivating and enthralling to read! Presents US history in an intelligent, even-handed, bi-partisan way. Written with common sense, civility and a strict adherence to fact and truth (instead of a format of indoctrination, propaganda or shaming.)
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Very well written, not dry nor slow. Compelling history on a much needed topic from a neutral perspective. It should be required study for middle school through high school and beyond.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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