Lafayette's arrival in 1824 coincided with one of the most contentious presidential elections in American history, Congress had just fought its first epic battle over slavery, and the threat of a Civil War loomed. But Lafayette, belonging to neither North nor South, to no political party or faction, was a walking, talking reminder of the sacrifices and bravery of the revolutionary generation and what they wanted this country to be. His return was not just a reunion with his beloved Americans, it was a reunion for Americans with their own astonishing singular past.
Lafayette in the Somewhat United States is a humorous and insightful portrait of the famed Frenchman, the impact he had on our young country, and his ongoing relationship with some of the instrumental Americans of the time, including George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and many more.
Why This Needs to Come Off the Shelf: I've had this one on a shelf for a couple of years ever since I saw Vowell live. I've been very hit or miss with her books but I'm curious about this one.
I have so many that I want to talk about and so many that I need to get on and read! I have high hopes for 2019 in getting some of these neglected books read!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like an interesting read. You already know that my books on the shelves that need to be read probably goes back to at least 2009(lol), and the list is still growing. Happy Thursday and hugs...RO
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've read Vowell. Sounds like an interesting book!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds really interesting, Katherine! I love that there is some humor worked into the book.
ReplyDeleteWell the curiosity might get you there one day soon, and the fact that you single it out also helps most likely!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds interesting. 📚
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