Synopses & Reviews
Classics stand the test of time, and Alistair Cookes history of America is a classic. Nearly three decades have passed since the original edition of Americabased on journalist-historian Cookes extraordinarily popular thirteen-part television seriessold more than a million copies. Yet Cookes view of Americas dynamic past and its impact upon the always-changing present continues to provide striking insights into the singular character of a nation. Those thirty years since award-winning America first rose to the top of best-seller lists have themselves wrought further dramatic changes. Presidents have been impeached, economies have toppled, empires have collapsed, and towers have fallen. In light of such events, Cooke has written for this new edition a compelling introduction and final chapter that bring his story of America up to date with the wisdom of the inimitably grand old man of correspondents. And what a story this book tells. From the discovery of America by European explorers to modern times; from the fighters for independence to the pioneers who tamed the West; from the slaves who fled to freedom to the huddled masses that sought a new life in the New World. And through it all, Cooke describes the essential forces that make America work so vitally. Updated in light of the September 11th tragedy, this new edition is complimented with full-color illustrations throughout. The first and maybe the finest, tribute to the nation.Newsweek A panoramic book, traveling fast and high, and the view it gives of our land and its people is exhilarating.Atlantic Monthly
Synopsis
A stunning new edition of an award-winning, bestselling "personal history of the United States"--updated in light of last September's tragic national events. Illustrations.
Synopsis
First published in 1973, this follow-up to Alistair Cookes acclaimed 1972 television documentary series America: A Personal History of the United States has sold almost two million copies. From the nations discovery to modern times; from the American revolutionaries to the pioneers who forged westward; from the slaves who fled north to the immigrants that sought a new life, Cooke vividly describes the spirit of the United States. Cookes portrayal of Americas dynamic history and its ever-changing present continues to provide striking insights into the remarkable character of a nation.
About the Author
Alistair Cooke (19082004) enjoyed an extraordinary life in print, radio, and television. He worked as a journalist and broadcaster for many different organizations, including the BBC, The Times, and the Guardian, and won numerous awards for his work. He is best known both at home and abroad for his weekly Letter from America, the longest-running radio series in broadcasting history.