Best History Book I have had this book for barely over a month, but it is by far the greatest history book I have ever used. Every word flows very effectively, and it is easy to understand. At the beginning of the year, I thought preparing for the AP Exam would be very tedious and boring. This book has made it a lot easier, as I find I can read a lot in one sitting, as it keeps you interested - almost like a good novel. The book I had last year, The American Journey, was by far the worst I have ever had. Boring, mundane text filled the pages, forcing me to stop after every 1-2 pages. This book more than makes up for that, as I cleared up some issues from last year quite quickly and effectively with it. Any US History course should make this book a requirement, as it is one of, if not the best out there.
College-Bound Student The American Pageant: A History of the Republic is my third U.S. history textbook. I used one in middle school and am using another in my current A.P. U.S. History class. In order to start reviewing for the A.P. exam in May, I borrowed this book from a friend. I find that reading this book is much more enjoyable than my current text, and the author does a much better job forming connections between specific events in History.
Some may not enjoy this textbook. Its depiction of U.S. History is presented in a novel-esque fashion, but there is clearly great substance to this text. I have always detested History classes, but I find myself re-reading chapters in this text purely out of interest.
Due to its amount of content and its enjoyable presentation, I recommend David Kennedy's textbook to anyone interested in U.S. History or preparing for the A.P. U.S. History Exam.
A Tribute to American History From: An AP student.
For my APUSH (AP U.S History) class, our homework usually consists of reading and outlining ten pages of this masterpiece. From the first ten pages, I was hooked. The descriptions of pre-Columbian America are very beautiful.
And that is why it is criticized. Many feel that it is too much opinion than fact, it's too flowery, too fanciful, too novel-esque. But that is why I enjoy it so much.
For example, when we completed the section on the American Revolution, I felt a sense of happiness and resolve that has never happened in previous history classes. What other text book can do that? The author decided to sacrifice a collegian tone to one that brings history to life, therefore allowing the audience to enjoy it and appreciate history. For that, he must be respected. This is a really enjoyable read, if you don't mind Columbus being the "World's greatest successful failure" or the North and South being compared to "Siamese twins, bound inseparably together", then you'll see why this book is such a wonderful read!
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