Kirkus Review reports that, according to Ellis, Thomas Jefferson was neither the saintly hero of myth nor the devious hypocrite depicted by some revisionist studies, but a protean character whose complex qualities evoke the best and worst aspects of our history and culture. Studying five crucial periods in his life, Ellis traces the unique mix of the brilliant and the fallible in Jefferson's character. We see him in turn as the young, sensitive, high-strung drafter of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia in 1776; a seasoned diplomat in Paris in 1784-89; a gentleman farmer (1794-97); a besieged president (1801-04); and finally, an elder statesman (1816-26). Jefferson's legacy--especially his emphasis on individual rights, an abhorrence of centralized government, and a belief in the necessity for religious freedom--continue to shape our political culture today. A thoughtful and respectful, but not worshipful, reassessment of the enduring meaning of Jefferson's life and work.

The book discussion session was held at Pat and Bob Fulmer’s house on February 25, 2003.  Larry and Stephanie Larsson handled reservations.