The Washington that emerges from these pages is a complex man consumed by appearances, steadfast in observing formalities, plagued by physical ailments that might have weakened the resolve of other men, and although remembered as stoic, possessed of a fiery emotional temperament. Despite its length, Chernow’s narrative provides consistent, fresh, and well-placed insight into the true character of Washington that places in context what might otherwise be a mere chronicle of events in our nation’s formative years. But this book is no dry recitation of facts. Naturally, Chernow’s work is inclusive of just about everything one would want to know about the remarkable life of Washington, alleged wooden teeth (they were not!) and all. It is nothing less than the new standard work on this “indispensable” founding father, and well worth your time. Though lengthy, I found Washington: A Life to be one of the most engrossing books I have come across in quite a while. I’ve been listening to an audiobook recording of Ron Chernow’s acclaimed Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of our first president-the printed book weighs in at a doorstopping 928 pages-for several weeks now during my travels. I thought George Washington would never die.
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