American Spring

March 24, 2014
Borneman (The Admirals) takes on the oft-examined topic of the Revolutionary War and zooms in on the events and months leading up to the rebellion—the “American” spring, as it were, of 1775, up until Monday, July 3, 1775, when George Washington officially takes command of the Continental Army. Borneman takes on this important moment in history in a broad and all-encompassing manner, providing details on both the major players and events of the time as well as the ways revolution was affecting the quotidian routine of ordinary colonial settlers. This approach gives the reader not just a comprehensive understanding of the rebels’ motives, obstacles, and overall tensions, but also makes the setting of the colonies during the spring of 1775 vivid and real to a 21st-century audience. The book aims to expand upon and illuminate current history rather than challenge traditional understandings of the era, though Borneman thoroughly acknowledges the large number of loyalist settlers, and shortcomings of the rebel movement, such as their occasional tendency toward violent protests (two aspects of history that Americans sometimes overlook). Borneman doesn’t add new angles, but his extensive coverage of the events and balanced writing style make it an enjoyable and accessible read. B&w illus.

How did media spread opinion before modern terms like "spin" existed? That question--as much as the Battle of Bunker Hill--is a part of Borneman's account of the Revolutionary War and its kindling. Tom Taylorson's clear-as-a-bell narration offers stories of people like Samuel Adams and Ben Franklin, along with battle accounts. An anecdotal style in both writing and narration gives both sides sympathetic treatment. Borneman lets listeners know there's a lot that's mysterious about the formation of the United States. His thorough, thoughtful writing--coupled with a reading that gently draws listeners in--makes for an interesting all-angles historical account. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine