Washington's Crossing

By: David Hackett Fischer

Narrated by: Nelson Runger

Pulitzer Prize, History, 2005

This New York Times best seller is a thrilling account of one of the most pivotal moments in United States history. Six months after the Declaration of Independence, America was nearly defeated. Then on Christmas night, George Washington led his men across the Delaware River to destroy the Hessians at Trenton. A week later Americans held off a counterattack, and in a brilliant tactical move, Washington crept behind the British army to win another victory. The momentum had reversed.

The “Pivotal Moments in American History” series seeks to unite the old and the new history, combining the insights and techniques of recent historiography with the power of traditional narrative. Each title has a strong narrative arc with drama, irony, suspense, and – most importantly – great characters who embody the human dimension of historical events. The general editors of “Pivotal Moments” are not just historians; they are popular writers themselves, and, in two cases, Pulitzer Prize winners: David Hackett Fischer, James M. McPherson, and David Greenberg. We hope you like your American History served up with verve, wit, and an eye for the telling detail!

©2004 David Hackett Fischer (P)2004 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

• Pulitzer Prize Winner, History, 2005

"An impeccably researched, brilliantly executed military history." (Publishers Weekly)
"An eminent, readable historian, Fischer here delivers an outstanding analytical narrative....Fischer's exhaustive research, right down to the Americans' collection of supplies, captures the utter precariousness of the Americans' situation. A must-read for military history fans." (Booklist)

Outstanding

I cannot add much to what the other reviewers have written, except to cast my vote for a very well researched, perfectly narrated and extremely readable book. The author explains that while today we celebrate the glory of the year 1776, the Americans who lived it thought of it as terrible and anything BUT glorious. Listening transported me to that time.

I highly recommend this book. One of the best accounts of American history I have experienced.

As Beautifully Read As Beautifully Written.

A detailed and brilliant study that is worn lightly in the writing. It is almost lyrical. Perhaps this is one reason why its reading by Nelson Runger is so flowing and effective. But I think his stentorian efforts also has to do with his skill and professionalism. Bravo to both of them!

Compelling history, not a novel

From the description and glowing reviews about this book, I was expecting it to "read" like historical fiction. It's more accurate and educational than historical fiction but not as engaging. With that said, Washington's Crossing was a very good listen, it held my attention and significantly broadened my knowledge.

great story with bonus at the end

the story revolves around the the early years of the war as it involves NJ and NY. Washington's ability to turn untrained militia into a foil that baffles the greatest army in the world is nothing short of amazing.

the bonus of having nelson runger interview the airport was just a fun way to end the reading.

Detailed without being boring

Nothing to dislike in this history and presentation. This book put to rest a lot of the myth and promulgated non-facts about Washington's Crossing and its aftermath.