Title: Brave Companions: Portraits in History
Author: David McCullough
First published November 1, 1991
240 pages, Paperback
Rating: 4.01
Overview
David McCullough’s Brave Companions: Portraits in History is a collection of inspiring stories about men and women who have changed the course of history and continue to inspire us to this day. From the epic explorations of Alexander von Humboldt to the bravery of Charles and Anne Lindbergh, each chapter tells the story of a person of great vision and daring.
McCullough’s rare storytelling ability brings us into the times they knew and allows us to experience their uncommon lives. These are brave companions: to each other, to David McCullough, and to the reader, and their stories express much that is timeless about the human condition.
About the Author
David McCullough, an award-winning author of historical non-fiction, received two Pulitzer Prizes and two National Book Awards for his books Truman, John Adams, The Path Between the Seas, and Mornings on Horseback. He also wrote other highly acclaimed works including The Greater Journey, 1776, Brave Companions, The Great Bridge, The Wright Brothers, and The Johnstown Flood.
In recognition of his contributions to American letters, he was awarded the National Book Foundation’s Medal for Distinguished Contribution, the National Humanities Medal, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, among other honors. Mr. McCullough resided in Boston, Mass.
Editoral Review
David McCullough’s “Brave Companions: Portraits in History” is a collection of essays that showcase his masterful storytelling, meticulous research, and passion for American history. McCullough is a renowned historian, biographer, and writer, whose works have won numerous awards, including two Pulitzer Prizes.
In this book, he explores the lives of several individuals who have made significant contributions to American history, ranging from explorers to artists to inventors to politicians.
McCullough’s writing style is engaging, informative, and accessible, making this book an excellent choice for anyone interested in American history. He combines vivid descriptions, compelling anecdotes, and insightful analysis to bring the past to life and to shed light on the personalities and motivations of his subjects.
One of the strengths of this book is its diversity of topics and characters, which allows readers to gain a broad perspective on American history and culture.
The essays in “Brave Companions” cover a wide range of time periods and settings, from the 18th century to the 20th century, from the West Coast to the East Coast. Some of the notable figures that McCullough profiles include Alexander von Humboldt, a German naturalist and explorer who influenced Charles Darwin and Thomas Jefferson; Harriet Beecher Stowe, an author and abolitionist who wrote “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”; and Frederic Remington, an artist who captured the spirit of the American West.
One of the themes that emerges from these essays is the importance of courage, creativity, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Many of the individuals that McCullough profiles faced significant challenges, such as financial hardship, social prejudice, or physical danger, but they managed to overcome them through their determination and talents.
Another theme that runs throughout the book is the interconnectedness of people and events, as McCullough shows how the actions of one person can have a ripple effect on others and on history as a whole.
Overall, “Brave Companions” is a delightful and informative book that will appeal to anyone who loves history, storytelling, and human drama. McCullough’s writing is impeccable, his research is thorough, and his passion for his subjects is contagious.
This book is a valuable contribution to the genre of popular history and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about American history and the people who shaped it.
Rating: 4.5/5
