The New Nation

A History of US, Book 4

By: Joy Hakim

Narrated by: Christina Moore

Beginning with George Washington's inauguration and continuing into the nineteenth century, The New Nation tells the story of the remarkable challenges that the new country faced. Thomas Jefferson's purchase of the Louisiana Territory (bought from France at a mere four cents an acre!), Lewis and Clark's daring expedition through the wilderness, the War of 1812 (aka "Revolutionary War, Part II"), Tecumseh's effort to form an Indian confederacy, the growth of Southern plantations, the beginning of the abolitionist movement, and the disgraceful Trail of Tears are just a few of the setbacks, sidetracks, and formidable tasks put in the new nation's path. These dramatic events and more are woven into a seamless tale that's so exciting, ho could it be true? But it is: it's A History of the US.

Wonderful US History; book 4 particularly good

What made the experience of listening to The New Nation the most enjoyable?

Very interesting chapter in American history, well told by Hakim.

What did you like best about this story?

It is such an inspiring time in US history, filled with extraordinary people. Served for me as an antidote to the discouraging state of modern affairs in the world. (Of course, they had their problems then too, like slavery and the unequal status of women...)

Which scene was your favorite?

The story of how Jefferson and Adams died on the same day, each believing the other survived, friends in old age after a long political rivalry. I've loved that story since I was a kid and was glad to share it with my son.

Other favorite bits were the end of George Washington's life (what a great man! I didn't fully appreciate him as a kid) and the Burr-Hamilton duel (what a waste of Hamilton's extraordinary intelligence).

Any additional comments?

The narrator here is particularly good -- she is lively without being distracting, and keeps us engaged with the material.

Great audio book

Must read for anyone who wants some good understanding of the American history. The book seems to be focus for kids/teens but as someone who is into his 30s I really enjoyed it

Very educational

What made the experience of listening to The New Nation the most enjoyable?

I'm studying English as second language. This audio book is very good for me. As this book is written for ten years old kids, sentences are very short and simple. Besides I learned a lot on the reality of the U.S. For example, there are very detailed stories on the first seven presidents of the U.S.