Title: Thomas Paine

Author: Craig Nelson

Publisher: Penguin Books 2007

Genre: Biography

Pages: 432

Rating: 4 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: Genre -- Biography; New Author; TBR Pile; Dusty Bookshelf; 52 Books -- W5

How I Got It: I own it!

Despite his being a founder of both the United States and the French Republic, the creator of the phrase "United States of America," and the author of Common Sense, Thomas Paine is the least well known of America's founding fathers. This edifying biography by Craig Nelson traces Paine's path from his years as a London mechanic, through his emergence as the voice of revolutionary fervor on two continents, to his final days in the throes of dementia. By acquainting us as never before with this complex and combative genius, Nelson rescues a giant from obscurity-and gives us a fascinating work of history.

An extensive bio of one of the lost Founding Fathers. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Nelson's account of the life and times of Thomas Paine. However, I do have a few minor issues. First of all, this biography is extensive. I fear that only the most ardent historian can make it to the end of the book. Second, Nelson delves into the background of the Enlightenment to explain Paine's place in history. I love the Enlightenment, but spending over 50 pages on events and people before Paine's time is a bit much even for me. Plus most of that information can be found in the Wikipedia page for the Enlightenment. Third, at times Nelson rambles. I found myself spiraling down in topic and discussion. Even with these few issues, I enjoyed the biography. It was a fascinating read.