This book, a National Book Award nominee in 1988, is the life of Thomas Jefferson as seen through the prism of his love affair with Monticello. For over half a century, it was his consuming passion, his most serious amusement. With a sure command of sources and skilled intuitive understanding of Jefferson, McLaughlin crafts and uncommon portrait of builder and building alike. En route he tells us much about life in Virginia; about Monticello's craftsmen and how they worked their materials; about slavery, class, and family; and, above all, about the multiplicity of domestic concerns that preoccupied this complex man. It is and engaging and incisive look at the eighteenth-century mind: systematic, rational, and curious, but also playful, comfort-loving, and amusing. Ultimately, it provides readers with great insight into daily life in Colonial and Federal America.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Very Good Book I bought this book after visiting Monticello and after reading it I would like to visit Monticello again. This book is very informative on Jefferson's life and the building of Monticello. I would recommend it to anyone interested in Jefferson's life.
Jack McLaughlin's newest book Readers who enjoyed "jefferson and Monticello" may be interested in my newest book, a piece of historical fiction based on Colonial Williamsburg: "Williamsburg, Virginia on the Eve of Revolution." It is available on Amazon.com under its title. See also my website:
williamsburgthenovel.com
Where was the editor? Undoubtedly, Mr. McLaughlin did his homework when he prepared to write this book. I enjoy biographies, am very fascinated by Thomas Jefferson, and was intrigued by the creative approach Mr. McLaughlin took to tell us about Jefferson by using Monticello as a "prism through which [we] view [Jefferson's] life ...".
Unfortunately, the execution didn't meet expectations and this is most noticable in the areas related to the editing. I had difficulty getting past the meandering style. The anecdotes hop around... more info
Read and then Visit Monticello Reading this book before a recent visit to Monticello tremendously enhanced the experience. The book provides so much detail on the design and construction of this beautiful home that you almost feel as if you have been there. A wonderful combination of biography and architectural writing. Highly recommended.
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