Garfield : Book Review

"Garfield" by Allan Peskin provides a comprehensive and engaging biography of James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. Peskin delves deep into Garfield's life, exploring his upbringing, military career, and political endeavors. The book showcases Garfield's intelligence, passion for education, and dedication to the abolitionist movement.

Peskin's writing style is captivating, drawing readers into Garfield's story. He skillfully blends historical facts with personal anecdotes, creating a vivid portrayal of Garfield's life and the time in which he lived. From his humble beginnings on an Ohio farm to his tragic assassination, Garfield's journey is both captivating and emotionally charged.

One notable strength of the book is its exploration of Garfield's intellectual pursuits. Peskin delves into Garfield's love for learning and his extensive knowledge of literature, history, and languages. This curiosity and thirst for knowledge shaped Garfield's political career and leadership style. The book offers valuable insights into Garfield as a scholar-statesman, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of his character.

Another highlight is the book's examination of Garfield's involvement in the abolitionist movement and the Civil War. Peskin thoroughly explores Garfield's tireless efforts to end slavery and his significant contributions as a Union Army officer. This often overlooked period of Garfield's life is given the attention it deserves, providing a deeper understanding of his values and principles.

Overall, "Garfield" is a meticulously researched and compelling biography that brings James A. Garfield to life. Peskin's attention to detail and engaging writing style make this book a captivating read for anyone interested in the life and legacy of this often overlooked president.

What are readers saying?

Allan Peskin's book "Garfield" has received a variety of reviews, with readers expressing both positive and negative opinions. The book delves into the life and presidency of President James A. Garfield, while focusing on the political and social climate of the era.

Many readers appreciate Peskin's extensive research and informative writing style. They mention that the book provides a detailed account of Garfield's life and presidency, shedding light on an often overlooked figure in American history. A number of reviewers praise the author's ability to present complex political events in a clear and engaging manner.

However, some readers find "Garfield" to be overly dense and packed with historical details, which may prove challenging for those without a strong background in American history. Additionally, a few reviewers express disappointment with the lack of personal insight into Garfield's character, feeling that the book centers more on political events rather than the man himself.

Some reviewers criticize Peskin's writing style, describing it as dry and devoid of emotion. They feel that the book reads more like a textbook rather than a captivating narrative. Nevertheless, there are also readers who appreciate the straightforward approach, as it lends credibility to the historical content.

In terms of structure, certain reviewers find the book to be disorganized, with chapters that jump between different time periods and topics. This can make it difficult for readers to follow the timeline and fully grasp the context of the events being described. However, other readers appreciate the book's comprehensive nature, noting that it covers a wide range of topics related to Garfield's presidency.

#GarfieldBook #GarfieldReads #CatComedy