A Founding Mother: A Reese's Book Club Pick
A REESE’S BOOK CLUB PICK
In time for the 250th Anniversary of the birth of the United States comes a sweeping, intimate portrayal of Abigail Adams—wife of one president and mother to another—whose wit, willpower, and wisdom helped shape the fledgling republic. A stunning historical novel with modern-day implications from the New York Times bestselling authors of America’s First Daughter and My Dear Hamilton.
In the heart of revolutionary Boston, Abigail Adams raises her children amid riots, blockades, and the outbreak of war. While her husband, John Adams, rises from country lawyer to nation-builder, often away for years at a time, Abigail builds her own independence—managing their farm, making lucrative investments, amassing savings, battling plague and loss, and defending their home. Unafraid to speak her mind, she famously offers fearless political counsel, urging John to “remember the ladies” in the new government. Through it all, she becomes his most trusted confidante and indispensable ally.
When peace is secured, Abigail steps onto the world stage—exchanging ideas with Thomas Jefferson in the French countryside, navigating court life as the wife of the Minister to Great Britain, and presiding over the parlor politics of the early American republic in New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Even after her husband’s presidential administration, she continues battling political foes and working behind the scenes to advance her family, secure independence for the women in her life, and ensure a better life for the next generation of Americans.
From war-torn streets to the chandeliered halls of power, A Founding Mother is the unforgettable story of a woman ahead of her time—one whose voice, vision, and valor still resonate powerfully today.
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Community Reviews
A Founding Mother is a beautifully written and engaging story that brings Abigail Adams vividly to life in a deeply personal and powerful way. I loved seeing her beyond the history books as a strong, thoughtful woman navigating so much behind the scenes.
I expected a historical perspective, but what surprised me most was how personal and emotional it felt. Experiencing events through Abigail’s voice made everything more immediate and human, highlighting the uncertainty, distance, and emotional weight carried by those living through history.
What stood out most to me was her resilience. There is a steady strength in her words that is not loud or dramatic, but deeply rooted and enduring. It left me with a strong sense of admiration, along with reflection on how often such contributions are overlooked. At times, the story also felt bittersweet, especially in moments of waiting, hoping, and carrying burdens that history doesn’t always fully acknowledge.
The writing flows smoothly and draws you into her world with ease. It’s the kind of story that lingers, reminding you of the voices in history we don’t always hear enough about.
A meaningful and memorable historical fiction read that I’m very glad I picked up.
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