Thomas Jefferson: President and Philosopher by Jon Meacham

Meacham, Jon  Thomas Jefferson: President and Philosopher, 284 pgs.  NON-FICTION. Adapted by Sarah L. Thomson  Crown Books for Young Readers, 2014.  $19.99  Content: Language: PG; Violence: G; Mature Content: PG.   

Thomas Jefferson’s life parallels the Revolutionary War and this book gives a great overview of the concerns that Americans had with the British including their fight for freedom and liberty.  It also paints a noble picture of Thomas Jefferson from the time he was little until he dies as an old man.  Thomas Jefferson loved acquiring knowledge and philosophizing about American politics.  There were many influential people in his life and he knew much heartache.  Although he wasn’t perfect, he did wonderful things to help America form their government.   

This edition has many black and white photos that help illustrate the time period and Thomas Jefferson’s life.  I loved that the main ideas were covered with a few interesting side stories, but the book never gets bogged down in the details.  This book definitely paints Jefferson in a positive light, with few references to his faults, but it’s a great look at the Revolution and the beginning of America through the eyes of one of our founding fathers.  The only reason I have it as advisable instead of essential is because I am not sure the simplified textbook layout of the book will appeal to many young adult readers, but if you have history lovers or your students needs a good biography—this book is perfect.

MS, HS-ADVISBLE.  Reviewer, C. Peterson.