John Avlon

This book was written in such a way that it was clear and understandable. It contained a lot of historical information that was new to me, and overall it made complete my understanding of Lincoln, especially of the extraordinary person he was. It also made clear the monstrousness of Andrew Johnson and how he destroyed the vision and actions that Lincoln had intended to take in order to restore the South into an actual Union with the rest of the country.

What makes this book so impertinent to read is the fact that it is a concise commentary on Washington's Farewell Address. Why does this matter? Because Washington's farewell is a momentous advice, imparted by a trailblazer who established precedents when he had none to emulate himself.

While Washington's advice has never been wholly implemented; its spirit remains preserved in American Republicanism.

A must-read for all historians and politicians.

I suspect that Avlon is preaching to the choir with this book, since those that mirror and echo the rants of extreme talk-radio hosts, who Avlon defines as "wingnuts", probably won't expose themselves to the ideas of this book. And those who are likely to read it, probably already recognize the facts Avlong lays out. Nonetheless, I think Avlon is on to something with this book, and I hope it receives a wide distribution.

nonfiction/American history-Washington biography. Not overly political even though there is plenty occasion for it, more of a practical analysis.