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Book Cover for: The American Spirit: Who We Are and What We Stand for, David McCullough

The American Spirit: Who We Are and What We Stand for

David McCullough

Reader Score

84%

84% of readers

recommend this book

Critic Reviews

Great

Based on 8 reviews on

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The New York Times Best Seller
2017 & 2018 The New York Times Best Seller
A New York Times Bestseller

A timely collection of speeches by David McCullough, one of America's most honored historians--winner of two Pulitzer Prizes, two National Book Awards, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom--that reminds us of the enduring principles at the heart of the American experience.

"Insightful and inspirational, The American Spirit summons a vexed and divided nation to remember--and cherish--our unifying ideas and ideals" (Richmond Times-Dispatch). Over the course of his distinguished career, McCullough has addressed Congress, the White House, universities, and historical institutions across the country. Now, in an era of self-reflection following a divisive political season, he brings together these stirring speeches in a powerful volume celebrating civic duty, American character, and historical perspective.

"The American Spirit is as inspirational as it is brilliant, as simple as it is sophisticated" (Buffalo News). McCullough reminds us of the values that unite us as Americans--regardless of region, political affiliation, or background. This is a book of history, hope, and reflection that speaks directly to readers seeking wisdom, unity, and a deeper connection to the ideals that define the United States.

Book Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster
  • Publish Date: Apr 10th, 2018
  • Pages: 192
  • Language: English
  • Edition: undefined - undefined
  • Dimensions: 8.20in - 5.60in - 0.60in - 0.65lb
  • EAN: 9781501174193
  • Categories: EssaysUnited States - GeneralCivics & Citizenship

About the Author

McCullough, David: - David McCullough (1933-2022) twice received the Pulitzer Prize, for Truman and John Adams, and twice received the National Book Award, for The Path Between the Seas and Mornings on Horseback. His other acclaimed books include The Johnstown Flood, The Great Bridge, Brave Companions, 1776, The Greater Journey, The American Spirit, The Wright Brothers, and The Pioneers. He was the recipient of numerous honors and awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award. Visit DavidMcCullough.com.

Critics’ reviews

Praise for this book

"This book is a gift. . . . It's a powerful argument for keeping history alive."--Michael Schaub "NPR"
"[McCullough] is one of the great historical storytellers of his generation. . . . Fundamentally Mr. McCullough loves the American story and its most illustrious characters."--Robert W. Merry "The Wall Street Journal"
"A national treasure, McCullough performs a national service in The American Spirit. Insightful and inspirational, it summons a vexed and divided nation to remember - and cherish - our unifying ideas and ideals."--Jay Strafford "Richmond Times Dispatch"
"McCullough perfectly embodies the part of remember-in-chief. . . . Happily, the same qualities that inform McCullough's histories and biographies also shape his speeches. He is, whether at his desk or a lectern, a consummate storyteller."
--Danny Heitman "Christian Science Monitor"
"A carefully crafted, well-reasoned, heartfelt testament to what this nation can be -- past, present, and we must believe -- future."

--Barbara Hall "The Providence Journal"

"Acclaimed historian David McCullough's The American Spirit is as inspirational as it is brilliant, as simple as it is sophisticated. It will at the same time make you laugh and give rise to tears of despair. . . . This is not patriotic boilerplate. McCullough is a historian and a realist. He sees his nation with all its warts, beginning with its indelible birthmark of slavery and continuing through to today's government dysfunction and political polarization. Yet he remains confident and upbeat."--Edward Cuddihy "Buffalo News"
"This collection captures McCullough's passion and vigor throughout. . . . [His] enthusiasm for history is infectious."--Andrew Carroll "The Los Angeles Review of Books"
"McCullough's passion for history and his profound belief in America, or at least his vision of America . . . is both encompassing and deeply hopeful. . . .Clio, the muse of history, smiles and nods her head on every page." -- "Kirkus Reviews"
"Very few among us possess the encompassing and informed perspective on America's past and present that historian and best-selling author McCullough has gained over decades of research. . . . McCullough's legions of fans will flock to this edifying collection."-- "Booklist"