"Entertaining--Keeps Your Attention"
This was a very good audio book that kept my attention for the entire 30+ hours. I thought the narrator was good and did not notice any of the complaints that were addressed in the other reviews. I read 1776 by McCullough and this was just as good or better. This is definately worth the two credits.
"I wish I could know the man personally"
For as long as the book is, it was done before I knew it. However, as the book came to a close, I felt such a strong bond to this great man. He seems to have seen himself as a ordinary man thrust into extraordinay circumstances, but in truth he was an extraordinary man. And his right hand was his incredble wife. And as I experienced their life through this book, I applauded their heroism and sacrifice, I raged as close friends betrayed them, and I cried as loved ones were lost. And in the end, I can't get over the fact that I would love to sit down with him to talk about life philosophies.
"Beyond Great"
To not listen to or read this book is lessen life's experience and your own understanding of the United States and where we came from. Its insights will open you up to a much broader understanding of the political reality of our country.
"A Real Person"
I enjoyed getting to know John Adams as a man, failings and all. It brought home that our nation was started by people, not icons. Anyone who has spent any time working in politics or in a large corporation can relate to the power struggles, manoeuvers and alliances the founding fathers faced as personalities and agendas struggled for dominance. It made our nation's often glamorized beginnings seem more real and increased my admiration for what was achieved.
"A delightful experience"
I completely enjoyed all aspects of this audio book. The narrator was engaging and his voice was pleasant to listen to for the many hours required. The writing style drew me in and I became enthralled with each small detail revealed about the lives of John and Abigail and the early American and European life depicted. I have gone on to read several books of Abigail's letters with great pleasure. This was an excellent, life affirming, and positive experience. Thank you Audible!
"Fantastic book and performance!"
I loved this book! McCollough tells Adams' story as if he were there. Many times I was so transported back to the late 18th century I missed my exit! The performance on the audio is excellent, although I was a bit disappointed that, at times, you could hear the narrator breathing like he was a 900 operator. No dry memorization of facts here, rather you are sucked into the narrative as you are into a great novel. Not sure if Jeffersonians will be too pleased with the content of the book, but it has kindled an interest in investigating the other side of the argument.
"Excellent!"
What an excellent look at a truly remarkable period of history. As a Canadian, I have not been immersed in the history of the American Revolution. This novel brought it to life in a way that made the characters breathe and gave a humanity to people who are often cast as unflawed super-beings in movies and TV. Quite apart from the historical content, it was a true love story from beginning to end and it showed the influence that strong women had in shaping America as it is today.
I will be listening to this fascinating book again. Very well done indeed!
Nui
"Great book, incredible narration"
I love an audiobook when the narrator changes voices with the characters. Nelson Runger does an amazing job at this and even changes his voice just slightly as John Adams ages. He does a masterful job at bringing the book to life.
The book itself is incredible, as it gives such great insight into the life of John Adams. You hear of his struggles, his joys and his disappointments. There is great insight into his personal and family life which shows his great love for his wife and children. I would certainly purchase this audiobook!
"Great book"
For anyone interested in US history this is a must read/listen. As we hear people complain about current US Presidents and Congress it was humorous to read that this same problem has been going on since the beginning! Kind of put things in perspective. My only complaint is the narrator read the story slowly. I ended up listening to it at 2x speed.
"Fascinating History!"
Quite simply, this was the most fascinating history I have ever read. I am grateful to David McCullough for his meticulous research and masterful writing. He has allowed me to personally know two of the nation's finest and most noble citizens, John and Abigail Adams.
I am also grateful to the narrator, Nelson Runger, whose voice fit the subject matter perfectly. It is clear he knew the book, the times and the characters inside and out.
"John Adams" is now on my ipod, my iphone and on my Kindle; it goes where I go and I intend to listen to it again and again.