WAKING GIANT America in the Age of Jackson

Author Reynolds paints a portrait of the social, intellectual, and political climate of the United States in the period following the War of 1812. The period saw a blossoming of American inventiveness and letters, although the impact of some developments wouldn't be fully felt for decades. Most characteristic of the period was Andrew Jackson, who transformed the presidency from a domain of East Coast intellectuals and gentry to a party-driven outgrowth of the voting public. The material is dense at times, and listening requires more concentration than reading a Jackson biography in print. Arthur Morey offers a solid narration. He regularly varies his pacing to avoid a sleep-inducing sameness. Avoiding affectation, he alters his tone just slightly when he delivers direct quotes to set them off. R.C.G. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2009]