The Avenger Takes His Place: Andrew Johnson and the 45 Days That Changed the Nation : Book Review

"The Avenger Takes His Place" by Howard Means offers an enthralling historical account that delves deep into the life of Edwin Edwards, the charismatic former governor of Louisiana. Means provides readers with a balanced narrative, expertly examining Edwards' rise to power and his subsequent downfall in the face of corruption charges. Through extensive research and insightful interviews, the author offers a comprehensive understanding of Edwards' personality and the political landscape of Louisiana during his time in office.

Means skillfully portrays Edwards as a larger-than-life figure, showcasing his undeniable charm, quick wit, and remarkable ability to connect with the people. By seamlessly combining anecdotes with historical facts, Means paints a vivid picture of Edwards' unparalleled influence and the widespread support he garnered from the population, despite his controversial behavior.

The book fearlessly tackles the controversies and scandals that plagued Edwards' political career. Means presents a well-rounded perspective, shedding light on both the positive aspects of Edwards' tenure, such as his impactful infrastructure projects and educational reforms, and the more questionable aspects, including allegations of bribery and his alleged involvement with organized crime.

One of the book's most outstanding features is the author's exceptional ability to capture the essence of Louisiana and its unique political landscape. Means vividly portrays the colorful characters and behind-the-scenes dealings that characterized the state's politics during that era, offering readers a fascinating glimpse into a world of power struggles and corruption.

Overall, "The Avenger Takes His Place" is a thought-provoking and captivating read that not only delves into the life of Edwin Edwards but also sheds light on the intricate relationship between politics and power in Louisiana. Through meticulous research and a well-balanced approach, Howard Means crafts a compelling narrative that is sure to fascinate anyone interested in American political history.

What are readers saying?

"The Avenger Takes His Place" by Howard Means has garnered a variety of responses from readers. Some reviewers commended the book's historical content for being well-researched and informative. They appreciated the author's ability to shed light on President Andrew Johnson's life and actions, particularly his rise to power and approach to Reconstruction after the Civil War. These reviewers found the book to be a valuable resource for gaining a deeper understanding of this significant period in American history.

On the other hand, there were readers who expressed more critical opinions about the book. They felt that the writing style lacked depth and engagement, making it difficult for them to connect with the content. Some reviewers found the book to be repetitive and disorganized, lacking a clear narrative structure. They felt that the author failed to effectively capture the complexities of Andrew Johnson's character and presidency.

Additionally, some readers felt that the book displayed a biased portrayal of Johnson, predominantly presenting him in a negative light without exploring other perspectives. These reviewers wished for a more objective analysis and felt that the author's own opinions and judgments overshadowed their hopes for a fair and balanced account. This led to some skepticism regarding the overall credibility and accuracy of the book.

Nevertheless, a few readers appreciated the book's insights into the political climate of the time, particularly regarding the impeachment proceedings against Johnson. They found this aspect of the book to be compelling and thought-provoking, as it shed light on the challenges faced by the country during this critical period.

In conclusion, "The Avenger Takes His Place" evoked a mixed response from readers. While some praised its historical content and informative nature, others were disappointed by its writing style, lack of depth, and perceived bias. Ultimately, those with a strong interest in American history, particularly the Reconstruction period, may find value in this book, though it may not be the most engaging or comprehensive exploration of Andrew Johnson's presidency.

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