Review: 1776 by David McCullough
Allow me to introduce myself, I am M. Towcester, Ph D. I teach fine literature at a British prep school. In my spare time I'll also write for this website reviewing books.
This week: 1776 by David McCullough, a historical recounting of events during America's nasty break up with Her Majesty's Kingdom.
Before I say anything further I must confess one thing; American history does not fall within my specialties. For all I know the author's tuppence short of a shilling! So if you find anything in this book astounding or perhaps differing factually from your own knowledge on the matter, please don't ring me up about it. I would not like that at all.
I found myself relieved to find McCullough's portrayal of our King George III more flattering than I'd expected. Perhaps he was merely gilding the lily to avoid offending those of us on the other side of the pond; it's often said Americans ignore the rest of the world, but this stereotype is going for a Burton I believe.
Mr. McCullough's writing takes time getting used to, but for a historical work, I found 1776 difficult to put up after a session of reading. The book lured me in like a fish on a hook.
Unless you have a particular aversion to this sort of book, go out and give it a read.
Fri, 2005-12-30 08:30 
This book lured me in like a fish as well! I couldn't put it down -- I almost forgot to Call the Operator one night because I was reading it! (Shame on me!)