Books Like...

'The Frontiersmen: A Narrative' by Allan W. Eckert follows the westward expansion of the United States into the middle northern states like Ohio. It presents a narrative that blends historical facts with creative storytelling, focusing on pioneers and Native Americans during a key period of American history. The author, Eckert, uses a novel-like approach to recount the struggles and conflicts faced by individuals such as Simon Kenton and Tecumseh, offering a detailed and immersive look into the American frontier during the 17th and 18th centuries.

'Washington's Crossing' by David Hackett Fischer is a detailed exploration of the key early portions of the American War of Independence, focusing on the military history and generalship involved in the Revolutionary War. The book delves into the biographies of key figures and emphasizes the importance of small, unorganized forces in inflicting damage on well-trained troops. Fischer brings to life the events of late 1776 and early 1777, particularly the battles in New Jersey, shedding new light on this crucial period in American history.

The narrative of 'Washington's Crossing' is praised for its meticulous research, vivid details, and compassionate portrayal of characters, capturing the spirit of the heroic soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Fischer's writing style is commended for its engaging storytelling, incorporation of personal letters and writings, and its ability to draw readers in with abundant details. The book provides a deep dive into the battles of Trenton and Princeton, offering a comprehensive look at these events within the larger context of the American Revolution.

'The First Salute' by Barbara W. Tuchman delves into the American Revolution, focusing on the connections with the Dutch and French in contrast to Britain. The book provides interesting and lesser-known information about the Revolutionary War, highlighting miraculous events that aided the Rebels to victory. Tuchman's writing style is described as riveting, reading like a novel and capturing the essence of real people involved in the historical events. The book offers a global perspective on the American Revolution, shedding light on the significant roles played by trade considerations, the West Indies, and European powers.

Tuchman's narrative uses the first international recognition of the American colonies' flag by the Dutch port of St. Eustatius as a lens to explore the broader geopolitical context of the revolution. The book covers pivotal events such as the march of American and French troops to Virginia, leading to the defeat of General Cornwallis at Yorktown. Through detailed storytelling, the author unravels the complexities behind the American Revolution, emphasizing the involvement of European powers and the strategic importance of trade routes and naval warfare.

'American Revolutions: A Continental History, 1750-1804' by Alan Taylor is a comprehensive exploration of the American Revolution, offering correctives to the standard narrative by including perspectives from various groups such as the British, the Loyalists, other British colonies, and American Indians. Taylor delves into the complexities of the time, highlighting the tensions in the colonies, the global implications of the conflict, and the role of indigenous and enslaved peoples in the war. presents the Revolution as part of a larger global war waged by Britain in the 1770s and 80s, shedding light on often overlooked areas beyond the 13 colonies.

Taylor's writing style is engaging and informative, providing a fresh and authoritative interpretation of the events leading up to the war and the aftermath. He challenges traditional narratives by incorporating African American and Indigenous perspectives as central players, while also emphasizing the motivations of Empires involved in the conflict. offers a nuanced view of the American Revolution, portraying it as a series of social, economic, and political revolutions that reshaped the landscape of the time, both in the colonies and across cultures.

'Jefferson the Virginian' by Dumas Malone is a detailed and engaging biography of Thomas Jefferson, focusing on his early life, family influence, education, political career, and his time as the governor of Virginia. Malone's writing style is described as fastidious, elegant, and easy to read, providing a thorough exploration of Jefferson's character, virtues, flaws, and contributions to American history. The book offers a comprehensive look at Jefferson's life up to the point when he left for France, his first venture out of the colonies, giving readers a vivid portrayal of colonial Virginia and the world in which Jefferson lived.

"American Colonies" by Alan Taylor and Eric Foner is a comprehensive and detailed exploration of the colonial period in North America. The authors provide a fresh perspective on early American history, delving into the interactions between colonists, natives, and other nations that settled in North America. The narrative covers a wide range of topics, from the struggles and conflicts between different groups to the exploration, trade, and social customs of the time. The authors present a balanced view of the colonial era, shedding light on both the positive and negative aspects of this period in American history.

Allan W. Eckert's book 'A Sorrow in Our Heart: The Life of Tecumseh' vividly brings to life the story of the Shawnee War Chief, Tecumseh, during a tumultuous period in American history. Through the gripping narrative and empathetic writing style, readers are transported back in time to witness the struggles faced by Tecumseh and his tribe against the encroaching white settlers and colonial militias. The book delves into Tecumseh's leadership qualities, his diplomatic skills, and his noble character as he fights to unify Indian tribes and defend their way of life against the relentless advance of the Europeans.

The author's unique talent for storytelling turns this historical account into a captivating novel-like experience, making it an engaging read for those interested in early American frontier history. Through meticulous research and accurate portrayal, Eckert sheds light on the untold truths of the past, particularly focusing on the atrocities committed against Native Americans and the heroic resistance put up by the Shawnees under Tecumseh's leadership.

Thomas Paine's 'Rights of Man' is a classic political treatise defending natural rights in plain and clear English. The book is a manifesto of political radicalism, challenging hereditary government and advocating for a social welfare state. Paine's work also serves as a rebuke of Edmund Burke's views on the French Revolution, emphasizing the importance of principles of government, rights, and balancing of powers. The book delves into the evolution of civil rights, the concept of a constitution, and the corruption inherent in the pairing of money and political power.

"Crucible of War: The Seven Years' War and the Fate of Empire in British North America, 1754-1766" by Fred Anderson sets the stage for the American Revolution, exploring the misunderstandings between Indians, colonists, and Great Britain that ultimately led to the revolution. Anderson seamlessly blends scholarship with engaging writing, providing a detailed history of the French and Indian War and placing it in the context of 18th-century North America. delves into the events in the colonies, the trans-Appalachian area, and Parliament in London, starting with George Washington's involvement in the French and Indian Wars and ending with the advice he gives to a friend to settle new land in defiance of British law.