I had a hard time getting into this but ended up really loving it. Abigail Adams was so interesting- part time feminist icon part time mother in law from hell, this book showed all sides. I really recommend this one.
I had a hard time getting into this but ended up really loving it. Abigail Adams was so interesting- part time feminist icon part time mother in law from hell, this book showed all sides. I really recommend this one.
I fell asleep too early and now am trying to read and listen my way out of insomnia. I‘m fascinated by the description of John Adams‘ smallpox inoculation and his subsequent confinement.
Well-rounded, readable bio of Abigail Adams, who helped shape America through her influence on her husband, John. She was way ahead of her time in advocating for women's rights. In a culture that frowned on educating women, she was intelligent, widely read, and made savvy financial investments often without the knowledge of her husband- also a cultural taboo. Holton does an excellent job of highlighting Adams' strengths as well as her weaknesses.
I know the parties were different back in Abigail Adams‘ time, but when I read this I couldn‘t help but think, “DAMN, GIRL ... SAME.” 😖
Abigail Adams was one of America‘s original nasty women. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏼
Me, listening to a book podcast: “Oh, that one about Abigail Adams sounds really good!”
Me, browsing through the stacks in my library room: “Oh, I already have it! Yay!”
When my husband asks why I have/need so many books ... THIS. Right here. This is why.
A fascinating look at Abigail Adams. Most of us know about her “Remember the Ladies” appeal to her husband. This bio also shows her financial astuteness in spite of women having little legal power in that arena. She often advised other women on how to be financially stable after marriage and preparation for their possible widowhood — this was at a time when men generally had financial control but for some loopholes. A woman ahead of her times!
"She was considerably less satisfied with some of the letters she received from John. . . 'They let me know that you exist, but. . . I want some sentimental Effusions of the Heart.'"
? Girl, I hear ya.
"Let other people call John haughty. Abigail was increasingly willing to apply to him precisely the same adjective he had used on her: saucy."
???