Being George Washington

By: Glenn Beck

Narrated by: Ron McLarty

Length: 9 hrs and 42 mins

Publisher's summary

If you think you know George Washington, think again.

This is the amazing true story of a real-life superhero who wore no cape and possessed no special powers—yet changed the world forever. It's a story about a man whose life reads as if it were torn from the pages of an action novel: Bullet holes through his clothing. Horses shot out from under him. Unimaginable hardship. Disease. Heroism. Spies and double-agents. And, of course, the unmistakable hand of Divine Providence that guided it all.

Being George Washington is a whole new way to look at history. You won't simply read about the awful winter spent at Valley Forge—you'll live it right alongside Washington. You'll be on the boat with him crossing the Delaware, in the trenches with him at Yorktown, and standing next to him at the Constitutional Convention as a new republic is finally born.

Through these stories you'll not only learn our real history (and how it applies to today), you'll also see how the media and others have distorted our view of it. It's ironic that the best-known fact about George Washington—that he chopped down a cherry tree—is a complete lie. It's even more ironic when you consider that a lie was thought necessary to prove he could not tell one.

For all of his heroism and triumphs, Washington's single greatest accomplishment was the man he created in the process: courageous and principled, fair and just, respectful to all. But he was also something else: flawed.

It's those flaws that should give us hope for today. After all, if Washington had been perfect, then there would be no way to build another one. That's why this book is not just about being George Washington in 1776, it's about the struggle to be him every single day of our lives. Understanding the way he turned himself from an uneducated farmer into the Indispensable (yet imperfect) Man, is the only way to build a new generation of George Washingtons that can take on the extraordinary challenges that America is once again facing.

©2011 Mercury Radio Arts, Inc. All rights reserved. (P)2011 Simon & Schuster, Inc. All rights reserved.

good listen for average person

it was a good listen. If you are a avid history listener and have a good knowledge of Washington already, I'm not sure it will add much. I still recommend however

Captivating content

I loved this book. I love learning about people, ancestors and their lives, how they lived ,This book definitely sparked my interest . History was a bit to dry during school. Mainly facts and figures. This book brought together history with a story . Thank you!

History brought to life...

What made the experience of listening to Being George Washington the most enjoyable?

The book isn't a dry regurgitation of historical facts. The facts are there. But the story is brought to life due to the real like like reading of the book. You feel as if you are there.

What did you like best about this story?

What I liked most was how Washington was really just any man. Yet he wasn't He made choices that lead him to where he was. He could have told his mother he was going to leave with his brother. But he did what he knew was right. He obeyed his mother.
He could have said no to Adams and others and not taken the charge of the Continental army, but he did so. And he did so humbly.

Which scene was your favorite?

The death bed scene with Washington.You really get to understand just how old and weak he had become. The strong, tall man was now reduced. But he died the same humble man he had always been...

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, I hated having to leave it. The more I heard the more I wanted to know what would happen next. Even though I knew much of the history already.

love it!!!

This book reminds me of why I am proud to be an American and why George Washington while never have biological children is seen as the father of a inter nation of people. My credits to the author they did a awesome job!

A Must For Sure!

As an American Revolution teacher and podcast (Patriot Power Podcast) host this is truly a masterpiece. What a joy it was, finishing it in 2 days. It popped up as a recommendation, how I missed it before I have no idea. The words were fantastic and accurate, the voice couldn’t have been a better choice and overall…splendid!

Awe Inspiring!!

There are a few things I should say first...1) A better story could not be written about the father of our country, 2) A more profound patriot could not have written a better book, 3) Why do I NOT know these stories about the indispensable man (oh, how I loathe the progressive agenda), 4) I am not a religious person and 5) Beck is my personal Hero!

I first learned of Glenn Beck while he was on CNN. It was about that time when he released, or that I heard of, The Christmas Sweater. Never in my life had I been on such an emotional roller coaster so many times in one book. It was that book, Glenn's promotion of history "in their own words" and the creation of "Founders Fridays" that made me honestly believe Glenn was more than just an opinion anchor; more than just an entertainer. I found Glenn's insistence to "find the truth yourself" and to "do your own research, don't believe me" to be as sincere as the love I have for my family (I really hope he doesn't prove me wrong someday). I personally owe Glenn Beck my gratitude; Glenn taught me that HISTORY really does enlighten one's future. Never in my life have I been so profoundly challenged to be a better person, by someone I do not know. Never in my life have I been so in awe of the providence someone holds so dear in their life.

While the Snow Angel is an inspiring and hopeful read, this book, Being George Washington, despite what Glenn Beck believes, is the GREATEST story he ever told. I listened to the book in two days while driving to Northern CA for Thanksgiving; just two weeks later, I realized that I had forgotten many important aspects of Washington's life and honor; I am in the middle of listening to it yet again.

In an effort to RESTORE our nation, I do not believe a better book than this could be more valuable or more timely. George Washington is the man who saved our Nation from itself; he sheltered our soldiers from the savages in Congress and saved the Congress from our soldiers discontent. At the point where EVERY American believes they can be George Washington (in their own lives), is the point where America will be RESTORED.

While I will probably never save a nation, I believe Washington was so great a leader and American Hero that I will do my best to live the rest of my life asking myself every day, "How would George Washington deal with this?"

Glenn, your love for George Washington has changed my outlook on life and how I conduct myself both personally and professionally. Your love for country has been your most endearing quality, and your love of providence has been a confusing but inspirational journey for me; I am not sure I will ever have the same faith in God that you have, but I am grateful to witness what someone's faith in God has done for their life and their country.

I should never say never, but I have added personally meeting Glenn Beck, to my bucket list. It would be a distinct honor.

In the mortal words (or sentiments of) of the indispensable man, George Washington, God Bless Glenn Beck and may God Bless America, the greatest nation in the history of the earth.

My hero has been brought back. Thanks Glenn.

What made the experience of listening to Being George Washington the most enjoyable?

Simply that this man stood on conviction and you nailed it.

What other book might you compare Being George Washington to and why?

The real George Washington.

Which character – as performed by Ron McLarty – was your favorite?

I think that the hamilton and jefferson blow ups were very enlightening about our founding fathers.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Absolutely.

Any additional comments?

I feel that the descriptions of the battles and the battles within the continental congress meetings were great depictions of the truth that our country faces even today. However, today we have more blotheating fools in our congress.

What an inspiration.

If you could sum up Being George Washington in three words, what would they be?

Excellent dramatic historical fiction. I was captivated the entire book.

What about Ron McLarty’s performance did you like?

The writing style is SUPERB!

Any additional comments?

What a remarkable story. The care taken to assure historical fact was excellent. It flowed beautifully throughout. I am extremely impressed.

Compelling and soulful

I could hardly put it down or turn it off. Most enjoyable and worth it.

Wow great book!

It's an amazing look at such a critical person in American history. I have a new appreciation for our first president and will try to follow his example.