WORST OF FRIENDS Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and the True Story of an American Feud

This book explores the intriguing notion of presidents as pals, focusing on our second and third presidents. Even though they were as different as can be in physical appearance and temperament, it was serendipitous for an emerging nation that Thomas Jefferson and John Adams shared “big, wonderful ideas about America.” Throughout their discourse on power, a bitter election, and a longstanding rift that ended with a resolution, they shared a belief in the individual’s right to an opinion. Richard Poe narrates with a firm voice that engages listeners with this historical vignette. His use of pause and emphasis is particularly effective in the parallel moments of the characters—such as when “John” and “Tom” retire and have similar experiences of reading, doting on grandchildren, and thinking about their friendship. A.R. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2012]