DCL Book Chat

Even if you’re not a presidential history buff you will find this book fascinating. And if you are a presidential history buff, plan on a late night. Candice Millard, who brought us the terrific story of Teddy Roosevelt ‘s journey down the Amazon that nearly killed him in River of Doubt, has outdone herself with another fascinating but little known story in American history.

Nine time Ohio congressman James Garfield was not expected to be his party’s candidate for president in 1880. But after thirty-four ballots he became the compromise candidate and soundly defeated Winfield Scott Hancock in the election. Garfield was on his way to improve African-American civil rights and heal the rift in his party when, just 200 days into his administration, he was gunned down by a deranged and disgruntled office seeker in a Washington, DC train station.

This fascinating biography of both Garfield and his assassin tells the story of a time in America when anyone could access the President and American doctors jeered at the findings of Joseph Lister. It’s the thoughtful story of a man who might have been one of our greatest presidents if he had not been cut down in the prime of his life.

Dedra

David McCullough redeemed John Adams in his Pulitzer Prize winning biography and here is your chance to meet the incredible woman who loved him. Abigail Adams was not only one finest writers of her age, she passionately campaigned for women’s education, denounced sex discrimination, and matched wits not only with her brilliant husband, but with Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. You go, girl!

Dedra

Kevin Connolly was born legless, but is raised as much like his siblings as possible, with tough love and humor. In high school, he became interested in skiing and went on to win second place in the X Games. Using his prize winnings, he traveled Europe and Asia on his skateboard. Connolly took thousands of photos of people as they stared at him, and created a traveling exhibit. An impressive account of his successes and struggles so far.

Jill

This poignant memoir of Guillermo Vincente Vidal tells of his early days in Cuba during Fidel Castro’s rise to power, his arrival in Colorado as part of Operation Peter Pan and the discrimination, poverty and uncertainty he faced. “Bill” Vidal grew up to be a respected public servant who has given back to the community in many ways, now as Deputy Mayor and Manager of Public Works in Denver.

Donna C.

No one does royal biographies better than Alison Weir; I own them all. For those of us who have read and reread Katherine by Anya Seton this is the true story of Katherine Swynford, the commoner who became the mistress of the charismatic John of Gaunt, son of Edward III. This strong, powerful woman was the ancestress of the Tudors, Stuarts, nearly every monarch in Europe and six American presidents. Their love affair was the scandal of the fourteenth century. Wonderfully researched, but eminently readable, this is a must read for lovers of British history.

Dedra