Founding Gardeners: The Revolutionary Generation, Nature, and the Shaping of the American Nation Audiobook

" While modern Americans view Washington, Jefferson, Adams and Madison as statesmen, these founding fathers viewed themselves primarily as farmers. They were dedicated to serving their country politically but their hearts remained closely tied to the land. This book details that intimate connection between these four men and the bountiful land they loved. It's a fascinating read for anyone who enjoys gardening and history. "

" This was a quick, interesting read. Having visited Monticello and Mount Vernon this past year, I enjoyed learning more about what I had seen. Some of this book is speculative like the bit about a garden tour helping along the Great Compromise, but still interesting and worth examination. I enjoyed learning more about the founding fathers and their connection with the land. Interesting from both a botanical and a more traditional historical perspective. "

" There were parts that were extremely interesting, and then there were parts that dragged quite a bit. Not necessarily any new information about our founders and their sense of space/garden, but interesting when put side-by-side. Also, more attention played to Madison than in other narratives. I would have liked to see more nuanced analysis of Western expansionism in re: Jefferson, but a good read in general. "

" A really interesting look at the founding fathers and the role gardening played in their lives and in the birth of the nation. I read it on my Nook, but it might be better read in print due to all the illustrations/diagrams at the end. "

" Meticulously detailed & wonderfully informative. What a great book to give to the gardener in your life. "

" A must read for gardeners.Those founding fathers were quite the plant geeks. "

" It was fascinating the way these different men found common ground in their gardens, and the way that American native plants became symbolic of the new country. "

" Enjoyed learning about American gardens as influenced by the colossal nature of the US which took our garden design away from the landscape styles of Europe. More emphasis on the forest as part of the design features being one of these influences. "

" Fascinating look at agriculture and the first four Presidents. How their ideas continue to shape our national heritage. "

" Disappointing. I thought the narrative thread was weak and forced. I liked her first book much better. "

" Terrific history & gardening! Interesting to learn how the founding fathers viewed the formation and independence of the US as agrarian-focused. "

" Interesting look at the passions of those who shaped the nation. Makes me want to visit their estates! "

" LOVE. This is history for gardeners. It's pretty, easy to read, well-researched, fair and about my some of my favorite people of all time. My only complaint is that I wish it were a little longer or in depth! Definitely going to read Wulf's history of the Bartram brothers soon. "

" Why I can't finish this book I have no idea, but I'm finally removing it from my bedside. It has no 'pull'. O well, maybe another time. Going to Mount Vernon today to see the newly restored garden.... "

" An oddity. It's very well written and interesting. However, it rather warps the story of the Founding Fathers by trying to link everything they did in founding the USA with gardening and farming. It comes across as trying too hard to make the facts fit the thesis. I still enjoyed it, though. "

" A very interesting and informative book. "

" This book was not a gimmick; the first American leaders were all but obsessed with gardening activities. I find that greatly positive. "

" Very interesting and lots of new knowledge (for me) of our early history. Recommended! "

" This book combines history and the importance and love of gardening in an interesting and informative manner. The author examines and compares how our founding fathers integrated farming/gardening with politics and the birth and sustainability of America. An interesting read. "

" Great gardening book with lots of history. Enjoyed very much "

" I enjoyed this book a lot. I am a Master Gardener and the history of botany in this country was very interesting. "

" A really interesting look at the founding fathers and the role gardening played in their lives and in the birth of the nation. I read it on my Nook, but it might be better read in print due to all the illustrations/diagrams at the end. "