This is the second novel by David Nevin that I have read (But won't be the last). The more I read it the more I realized that politics has changed very little in the last two hundred years. I have been a student of American History for twenty five years, and still learned much from this novel. The author writes in such a way that you can almost imagine yourself being there to witness history as it is being made. And since it is a novel its not at all dry or boring to read, yet is based on historical facts with minimal "literary licence".

If you are going to read "The Federalist Papers," you must also read "The Anti-Federalist Papers" in order to get the complete picture. Both books cross-reference each other and both are instrumental in understanding how our government was designed and how it was intended to work. In addition to the Papers, this edition also contains the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and an excellent introduction by Charles Kesler.

In a time when each colony had its own "constitution," the Federalists believed in creating one strong centralized government (with one Constitution) that could effectively represent the people. The authors and supporters of the Constitution knew that they could not afford to lose the vote in the state ratifying conventions. In an effort to win over his home state (New York), Alexander Hamilton, with the assistance of James Madison and John Jay, began a collection of 85 essays and published them under the pseudonym of "Publius" (named after one of the founders and heroes of the Roman republic, Publius Valerius Publicola). The Papers, published in 1787 and 1788, analyze and defend the proposed Constitution of the United States.

The Federalists succeeded in winning the colonists' support. But, even though the anti-federalists lost, their ideas were also brilliant and made an important contribution to the history of our government, which is why you should also read "The Anti-Federalist Papers."

This book is a must-read for all Americans. After reading this book, you will have a renewed appreciation and admiration for the wisdom and vision of our founding fathers.

If you are going to read "The Federalist Papers," you must also read "The Anti-Federalist Papers" in order to get the complete picture. Both books cross-reference each other, and both are instrumental in understanding how our government was designed and how it was intended to work. In addition to the Papers, this edition also contains the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and an excellent introduction by Charles Kesler.

In a time when each colony had its own "constitution," the Federalists believed in creating one strong centralized government (with one Constitution) that could effectively represent the people. The authors and supporters of the Constitution knew that they could not afford to lose the vote in the state ratifying conventions. In an effort to win over his home state (New York), Alexander Hamilton, with the assistance of James Madison and John Jay, began a collection of 85 essays and published them under the pseudonym of "Publius" (named after one of the founders and heroes of the Roman republic, Publius Valerius Publicola). The Papers, published in 1787 and 1788, analyze and defend the proposed Constitution of the United States.

Obviously, the Federalists succeeded in winning the colonists' support. But even though the anti-federalists lost, their ideas were also brilliant and made an important contribution to the history of our government, which is why you should also read "The Anti-Federalist Papers."

This book is a must-read for all Americans. After reading this book, you will have a renewed appreciation and admiration for the wisdom and vision of our founding fathers.

I found this book to be one of the best books I ever read. Instead of giving a lay understanding of some of the arguments, I would like to note what I found exceptional about this book: the footnotes. The footnotes of this book gave detailed accounts of historical references made that shed much light on where the arguments were coming from. There is so much to be had from this book that I know I will read it at least five more times. Should be required reading by all Americans.

Henry Morris has never been one to shy away from controversial issues, and that is reflected in the footnotes he penned in this study Bible. He has comments on passages that others often totally ignore in their editions. He frequently challenges the conventional interpretation of difficult passages (for example, his identification of the rider of the white horse in Revelation 6:2 as Jesus Christ, rather than Anti-Christ.)

Morris' notes are clearly based on the literal hermeneutic: that is, dispensationalism. In addition, he is unabashedly baptistic when it comes to church polity. And of course, he is definitely a young-earth creationist. If you are unwilling to accept this sort of perspective on the Scripture, you should probably look at a different study Bible.

Morris gives a clear and concise defense of his choice of the Authorized Version as the text. His defense indicates that he is in the mainstream of the Majority Text/Textus Receptus camp. He is *not* KJV-only.

The text provided Word does have certain shortcomings. The italics for words which are implied but not stated in the original languages are missing from this text. In addition, the concordance is essentially worthless. If you are away from home and don't have access to your Strong's or Cruden's concordances, trying to use the concordance is very frustrating.

This Bible is now my primary study Bible. It doesn't replace my Scofields (original and new editions) nor my Thompson Chain Reference Bible, but I do find it refreshing to read and study from.

This Bible is an amazing source of information about the Bible, science, and the creation that God made and said was good. I use this as a reference tool for almost all the books in the Bible. The commentary on Genesis and Revelation are worth the cost of the book alone. The rest of the New Testament commentary is truly edifying for the hungry believer. Buy it, use it, treasure it as a faithful commentary and presentation of God's Word to his church in these last days.

Henry M. Morris, a foremost Bible scholar, scientist, and scholar, has produced yet another great volume filled with Biblical truths that all Christians should read.

Dr. Morris's views on the validity of literal Bible interpretation and the infallibility of the Bible are represented eloquently throughout the more than 6000 annotations in the Defender's Study Bible. He strives to explain difficult passages in a clear and concise manner. He refuses to compromise in order to maintain the authority of true Biblical Christianity and doctrine. He applies what the Bible says to modern life, constantly comparing numerous things in the Bible to their contemporary equivalents.

One of the greatest aspects of this study Bible is its clear views on controversial matters. Where other study Bibles and other commentators will take a neutral stance, Morris presents what he believes to be the truth--what he feels the authors meant by what they said--and compassionately, lovingly, tactfully, and thoroughly defends his belief while presenting and disproving those of others.

Morris himself wrote in his introduction that the Defender's Study Bible follows a literal approach to the Bible. He says, "Based on this literal and contextual approach, the notes become what one might call Baptistic in ecclesiology, pre-millennial in eschatology, non-charismatic in pneumatology and moderately Calvinistic in soteriology." While no attempt is made in his notes to formulate formal doctrines, they do support the above-mentioned ones.

Also of interest is the eighteen appendices at the back of this Bible covering the scientific evidences proving the Bible and evolution vs. creation.

If you are interested in what the Word of God truly says, the Defender's Study Bible is for you. I highly recommend it.

Although the analogy used to organized the book was "cute," it was useful in that the presentation was interesting, and at times, powerful and persuasive. The material was current and could be applied to events occurring today-foreign policy issues, the slow track for approval of judicial candidates, the continuing debate over the impact of majority minority districts, and the toll a negative media can take on an institution whose legitimacy depends upon the trust of the people.

Mayhew once again delivers an insightful and original treatise on the machinations of the world's preeminent legislative body. A must-read for any serious student of political science.

Excerpted from The Independent Review (Summer 2001) by Hans Eicholz

Rosen presents one point of view, which puts in practice a fairly pure version of what is generally called the "Straussian" interpretive approach. As a historian, I have some strong reservations about his method. Nonetheless, Rosen has made some significant contributions in this monograph.

Rosen correctly notes that scholars have usually ignored Madison's actions as president. They tend to stop with his service in the first federal Congress, as if only his transition from nationalist Publius to state's rights Republican needed to be explained. Rosen's work seeks to fill an important gap in the literature. A nice example is his treatment of the Bank of the United States.

Because Rosen relies almost entirely on Madison's own accounts, we get little sense of the historical context in which Madison was operating. Rather, we get a very streamlined theoretical account of Hobbes, Locke, and Aristotle, and caricatures of Jefferson and Hamilton. The effect is to produce a truncated picture of Madison's intellectual world.

Rosen has made some useful suggestions for approaching Madison's constitutional thought, but he has not adequately developed them, primarily because of his inattention to history.

American Compact merits serious consideration by those of legitimate concern with the evolvement of the American Ethic. Self described as a rehabilitation of Madison as a statesman and politician, Rosen's effort greatly exceeds his goal. Tracing the chronicles of Madison's intellect, enlightenment, and experience the myths of this Virginian are dismantled in a scholarly, and prudent fashion. From the claim of Madison's apostacy to his own nationalistic principles in the 1790s ,his demotion to a lieutenant of Jefferson's, or a 'trimmer' Rosen convincingly destroys those myths, and frees Madison from the framework of being considered only in light of his friend Jefferson, and, or, his protagonist Hamilton. In the spirit of Banning and McCoy a fresh view of the Father of the Constitution is afforded those who read the book, to those who study it, a conduit to the allusive Original Intent is possible. The greatest lessons that emerge are the veracity of Madison's claim of consistancy throughout his career, and a clear view of Madison's working to construct a document of national power, which he realized the average man could not accomplish, and then turning it back over to the citizenry not only for ratification, but for the participation Madison saw as required by the principles of the revolution.

I imagine most Americans would think the above title reflected historical fiction rather than fact.

The fact is that most contemporay Americans thought the Burning of Washington would live on forever in the American mind as an ignoble moment of shame and humiliation. That it has largely been forgotten is a testament to how America has changed and grown since 1814 -- rendering what has become one of our "little wars" largely to the history books with an occasional reprieve when the Star Spangled Banner is considered. It is worth considering that President Madison is remembered today as the father of the Constitution, and not as the rascal who allowed the White House and the Capitol to be burned by a foreign army during a war so ineptly fought by our side. I imagine that had this occurred in any number of other countries, his moment of singular presidential humiliation would attach itself more largely to his name. We remain an optimistic people.

Anthony S. Pitch has written a very good account of the British occupation and sacking of Washington, D.C. in his book "The Burning of Washington. The British Invasion of 1814." The author makes good use of contemporary sources and observations from American and British combatants as well as civilians. The background is sketched well enough to allow the reader to understand why the British stood at the mouth of the Potomac River ready to invade our capitol city. Personalities of American and British commanders as well as President Madison and especially Secretary of War John Armstrong - to whom can be attributed the immediate blame for Washington's unprepardness - are well summarized to give the reader a good feel for how individuals affected the events covered in the book.

The story covers the Battle of Bladensburg, the march on and occupation of Washington, the burning of the public buildings (focusing on the Capitol and White House), as well as the British attempt to take Baltimore, which failed before the walls of Ft. McHenry. Francis Scott Key's penning of our national anthem is also covered, as well as the British retreat. The book ends with summaries of the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the war, as well as Jackson's incredibly lopsided victory over Gen. Packenham before New Orleans.

All in all this is a good and interesting book. The author keeps the pace moving while giving enough detail to both satisfy curiosity as to why events are unfolding as they did as well as add the flavor and feel that can come from a judicious use of diary entries and contemporary accounts. I recommend this to any history buff who would like to know more about a now overlooked -- but still astonishing - part of American history.

Anthony S. Pitch is a first class story teller. From the humiliating defeat of the panic-stricken American troops at Bladensburg, Maryland (north of Washington, D.C.) to their magnificent victory over the British army at New Orleans (under the command of the immortal Andrew Jackson), it's all here. I found it difficult to put this riveting book down. As a native of Baltimore, I particularly enjoyed the author's fact filled account of the important battle at Fort McHenry and the birth of our National Anthem. The heroics of American Generals George Armistead, Samuel Smith, and John Stricker are faithfully retold, along with rich details about many other gallant defenders of the then-young Baltimore City. I grew up during WWII on Locust Point, in south Baltimore, where the Fort still stands as a sentinel, jutting out into the Patapsco River. Pitch's research of the combatants' competing military strategies in that seminal battle is very illuminating, indicative of the author's background as a journalist. The death of British General Robert Ross, just before the start of the decisive land battle at North Point (just east of Fort McHenry) at the hand of two sharp shooting patriotic riflemen, Henry McComas and Daniel Wells, deserves a chapter all to itself. Pitch also describes marvelous anecdotes about the torching of the city of Washington by the British that should be read by every American that cares about his country's history. I never fully realized just how close our nation came to again becoming a province of the British Empire. Pitch relates it was a lot closer then most of us ever imagined. I can't wait for this well-documented book to become a movie. It would make a great sequel to Mel Gibson's splendid film, "The Patriot."

Anthony Pitch has written a memorable account of a seminal event in American history. His portrayal of the British burning of our nation's capitol is an exciting, fast-paced description of events which catch and hold the reader's attention from the first to last page. Pitch's suspenseful story captures the essence of what is best in historical nonfiction - the ability to depict events in an accurate and yet dramatic style, painting word pictures in a crisp, authoritative fashion which entrances the reader. This book is a must for the library of every history buff, and for that matter, for every civic-minded citizen. There is no doubt in my mind that it will be made into an intriguing motion picture.

I felt that the treatment this author afforded the victim Mary Ball was akin to raping her all over again. He uses the term alleged in front of the crimes against her but does not employ the same qualifier before mention of the crimes committed against the male victim. The author repeats rumors that Miss Ball had loose morals and that (gasp) she sometimes didn't wear underwear! Obviously, if she dressed like that she had it coming, right? He did not, apparently, attempt to speak with anyone with a more favorable impression of Miss Ball in order to present a more balanced picture. Finally, at the end, he presents a touching picture of a reconcilliation between James Cameron and the murdered man's surviving brother but Mary Ball has disappeared from the author's work by this point. She has become an invisible woman. I for one would like to know how she felt at this point, to hear her words. Although the book had it's places the good professor has done a terrible thing to Mary Ball and for that he should be ashamed.

James H. Madison has provided us with a book about an incident that no one wants to know about - a bit of ugly history that we would rather not think, much less READ, about. A LYNCHING IN THE HEARTLAND: Race and Memory in America is a brilliant investigation and commentary on the heinous incident on August 7, 1930 in Marion, Indiana. On that quiet night in the quiet heartland of America, far removed from the South with its long-standing history of racial clashes, two African American men were snatched from the jail by white mob frenzy and hung from a tree for the 'dastardly deed' of murder and rape of a white couple. No trial, no conviction, just an acting out of racial hatred, an act captured in the most famous photograph of a lynching in the American context. Madison reports the events factually with a mesmerizingly accurate attention to detail. But the story does not stop there. Madison has researched the history prior to the incident and the subsequent followup that identified brilliant African American leaders and challengers, one of whom was the third man not lynched on that hideous evening in 1930 - James Cameron. Madison then reflects on the whole history of racism in this country, beginning with the equally offensive murders and tortures of the American Indians and extending down to extant incidences up to the time of the publication of this valuable, disturbing book.

Madison repeatedly makes the point that if we don't study our history and vividly recall our past then we are doomed to persist in unjust racial crimes. This is a tough book to swallow, but a very important one for all of us to read. Only by exposing ourselves to the ugly events of our history can we hope to learn and prevent such madness from recurring. An eloquent, vital, and impressive contribution.

In August of 1930, a lynching took place. It would not be uncommon for one to assume that the lynching took place in the deep south, but in this instance, the assumption would be incorrect. The lynchings of Tom Shipp and Abe Smith took place in Marion, Indiana, America's Heartland. This event is responsible for one of the most famous photographs of an American lynching.

The author demonstrates how stereotypes and fear contributed to the lynching. The mere suggestion that a White woman was raped and a White man was murdered by three Black men, provided enough inspiration to turn a normally cordial, if not friendly, small town into a lynch mob. Madison outlines how a community dealt with the chilling reality that such mob violence had taken place in their small town. Because of shame, guilt and even fear, this tragic event was buried in Marion, Indiana's collective memory.

Flossie Bailey, a prominent African American woman in the community, as well as others, worked hard to mobilize the community in an attempt to make sure that at least some of the people involved in the murders would be held responsible for the crimes while fear kept other African Americans in the community quiet. Unfortunately, no one was held responsible for the crime.

Madison also highlights the history behind what is considered by many to be the most famous lynching photograph in American history. The photograph, taken by Lawrence Beitler the night of the lynching, has been reproduced and widely circulated. During the time immediately following the lynching, some people bought copies to serve as a "trophy", while others felt it was an abomination. It is a stirring photograph that depicts two dead men hanging from a tree while crowds of White's stand around some in their Sunday best, some pointing, and some chatting and laughing.

This book begins with a vivid and chilling description of the events leading up to the lynching, the lynching itself and the events that followed. The description of the scene was a result of the author's extensive research which included interviews, reviewing court documents, magazines, books and other historical archives. Although the author noted that his initial goal was to write an article about the event, he quickly learned that the story of this lynching was much bigger than what could be captured in an article. In addition to the actual description of the events surrounding the lynching, the author creates a historical context by providing a description of life for both African Americans and Whites during the era. He details the role that the NAACP and committed community leaders played in fighting for broader civil rights for African Americans.

He ends the book with a story of healing. On the night of the lynching, three men were in jail awaiting trial, yet only two of them were lynched. The third man, James Cameron's life was spared, and eventually Cameron began to share his story with the world. His goal in sharing the story was to promote racial healing and unity. This book touches on an area of American history that is often buried and rarely talked about. Through the author's research he is able to share a story that demonstrates just how far we as a Nation have come, and I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed by Stacey Seay

I like many others was impressed by this movie. Some 12 months or so ago I came across the book for a bargain price and snapped it up.The book focuses on the making of the movie but also contains superb photography of a very pretty part of the US. A book for fans and lovers of nature.

This book is easy to understand well at the same time gives loads of info. It describes Dolley's life from beginning to end and it helped me to understand not only the fourth first lady but also the events of her time. This book desribes how she lost her first husband and sons. It also desribes how she was disowed for marring out of her faith to James MAdison. This book is worth reading because it is informational and entertaning.

Reading this book is a bit of an undertaking. It took me several weeks to slog throught the first 2-300 pages. The book is absolutely comprehensive (at least relative to other single-volume biographies), maybe overly so in parts. For example, I thought the author went into way more detail than I needed on the contents of the Princeton University library while Madison was a student there. The first third of the book was pretty dry in my view, and I was already thinking about what other bio of Madison I could find. Once the discussion turned to the Revolutionary War period and especially the Constitutional Convention, however, the book really took off for me and thereafter was an absolute joy to read. I could not have enjoyed the last half to two-thirds of the book any more than I did. It was fascinating and went a great way toward renovating my impressions of Madison which were damaged somewhat after reading bios of Washington (Flexner) and Adam (McCullough), which were not all that comlimentary. I have to believe that this is THE definitive one-volume bio of Madison. I just wish it was still available in HB from someone other than the Easton Press. On to James Monroe (Ammon)!

In this, the 250th anniversary year of James Madison's birth (16 March 1751), I hope people will want to read more, and know more, about "The Father of the Constitution" and one of the most important Founding Fathers. And for a serious, academic treatment (no, it is not 'pop' biography or 'easy' reading) of Mr. Madison's life, thoughts, beliefs, and accomplishments - this is the one book to read.

Yes, I happen to work at Montpelier, Mr. Madison's life-long home and the home that he and his wife Dolley shared during their marriage - and I can promise you that Dr. Ketcham's well-worn, tabbed (it looks like a porcupine) book is our 'bible' when it comes to James Madison.

There are other, quite good, books about Madison but this is the one for a thorough overview, from birth to death.

This is an absolute gem of a read. In addition to being an excellent education on Madison, I felt as if I were traveling on a rich historical journey back in time. James Madison was a man of integrity and brilliance, and the chronicles in this literary treasure allow the reader to appreciate the greateness of this indespensable founding father. As President, his patient handling of the War of 1812 was commendable, despite difficulties and inept generals, and after the conclusion of the conflict, the nation was more unified than ever before. It was a solid reinforcement of the independence gained from the revolution. There was no question of a challenge from Britain again. There is no doubt in my mind that Madison is the most underrated President. And of course his exceptionally brilliant knowledge, skill and leadership during the Constitutional Convention of 1787 led to the ratification of the nation's cornerstone. Every person who values freedom owes a great debt to this man. America was an experiment in Democracy, and without James Madison it may not have been secured. This is more than a book, it is an experience.