Thomas Jefferson

By Maira Kalman,

Book cover of Thomas Jefferson: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Everything

Book description

Renowned artist Maira Kalman sheds light on the fascinating life and interests of the Renaissance man who was our third president.

Thomas Jefferson is perhaps best known for writing the Declaration of Independence-but there's so much more to discover. This energetic man was interested in everything. He played violin, spoke…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Thomas Jefferson as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I love Kalman’s vivid, colorful illustrations (so luscious, they look edible) and her lively, breezy style, peppered with questions to the reader and her own feelings.

The enthusiastic writing focuses on Jefferson’s many enthusiasms—such as books, food, music, and gardening. The big reveal that he owned slaves comes quite a bit later in the text, along with Kalman’s commentary (“our hearts are broken”).

An important book for young readers that introduces them to our brilliant, complex, flawed third president.

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