Thursday, February 25, 2010

Seven Miracles That Saved America

This book, written by Chris and Ted Stewart, is pretty cool. Not only did I learn a good deal about history, but the authors made it exciting to read the accounts of nonfictional, and fictional characters, in a narrative form. At times I could feel myself getting tense as they tell the story of unlikely odds then bright triumph.

The premise of the book seemed to say, "Sure, there are problems and bad things in this country, but there is a lot of good being overlooked. Let's remember some of the amazing things that have happened here and think about what could happen in the future."

With that being said, I think you should read it for yourself :) The Miracles described were:

- Columbus' discovery of the Americas
- The rescue at Jamestown
- The Battle of New York and the summer fog
- The act that a Constitution was written and accepted
- The Gettysburg Battle
- The Midway Battle
- Ronald Reagan's accomplishment in bringing an end to the arms race

More than just saying that these were miracles by overcoming great odds they led the reader to consider what the world would have been like if the event hadn't transpired. Consider for a second what this land mass would have been if Jamestown hadn't succeeded? The U.S. as we know it may have originated from Spain or still be their territory. Did the Spaniards treat the inhabitants of the Americas very well? Nope. Anyways, I'll leave those questions for you to toss around.

Something I enjoyed was that this book motivated me and gave me a sense of gratitude for this country. I became a little more patriotic and a little less cynical. Also, I was motivated to learn more about these events and want to study (at least part-time) history.

Now one thing that, in my opinion, could have been better was the structure. The old I'll give you a big enough clue about why we should have hope that by the end you don't need to read the last chapter wasn't very unique. Even with that being said I would give it two thumbs up, four stars, or a high kick.

You can always judge a book by how often you reference it during and after you read it and if you want to read it later. Certainly, I've done the first one--both my wife and coworkers can attest to that--and I'm sure I'll read it again.

Until next time...happy reading!

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