His Excellency

George Washington

By: Joseph J. Ellis

Narrated by: Nelson Runger

Acclaimed author Joseph J. Ellis penned the National Book Award-winning American Sphinx and the Pulitzer Prize-winning Founding Brothers, a fixture on The New York Times best seller list for an entire year, and one of the most popular history books of all time. Now this master historian turns his attention to the most exalted American hero, Founding Father and first President George Washington.

Washington has always been a larger-than-life enigmatic figure. On the day he was given command of the continental army, he recorded only the temperature and where he ate dinner in his journal. But recently, his papers were catalogued at the University of Virginia. Ellis had primary access to the 90-volume papers, allowing him to paint a thorough and fascinating portrait.

From the French and Indian War to Mount Vernon, from the American Revolution to the presidency, Ellis delivers what will stand the test of time as the definitive biography of the greatest American icon.

Critic reviews

• Audie Award Finalist, Non-Fiction (unabridged), 2005
• 2005 Quill Award Nominee

"Ellis offers a magisterial account of the life and times of George Washington [that] leaves readers with a deeper sense of the man's humanity." (Publishers Weekly)
"Mr. Ellis gives us a succinct character study while drawing on his extensive knowledge of Revolutionary and post-Revolutionary history to strip away the accretions of myth and contemporary extemporizing that have grown up around his subject....An incisive portrait of the man." (The New York Times)

Poor Reading

The execution of the reading of this book is exhausting. From the extended pauses, to the lip smacking & heavy breathing, it's obnoxious to listen. I tried to be open minded, but just couldn't take the dialogue any longer.

Captivating and Comprehensive

Comprehensive story of Washington’s life. From challenges to triumphs, from relationships to inner reflection, this story brings Washington to life to better understand the impact he had on the foundation of America.

His Excellency

The most in-depth analysis of George Washington?s life from the French and Indian War through his death I have ever read. Ellis?s book is not written for general audiences and in order completely comprehend this title you will need much background in the founding of America. Nevertheless, it will answer multiple questions you may have about this majestic man and leave you with a highly sophisticated knowledge of his life.

Great!

This book was incredibly enjoyable. One of my favorite audio books because of the objective approach and interesting aspects of Washington that are presented. It's very detailed but not overly so. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in this man. I had never known much about the "primus inter pares" of the revolution before but now I see why so many people were willing to follow him. The author does a great job in his writing and Washington seems like such an interesting subject in his hands that you can't help but enjoy the ride.

5 star book, 2 star narration

This is one of the most balanced books on Washington and is well researched. My advice is to buy the book and forgo the audio book. This is 10 hr book read in 14 hours....sooo slow.