If the Founding Fathers Joined a Book Club…

The Founding Fathers of the American Revolution are pretty near and dear to our hearts. Even today, their names are invoked in political debates, philosophical discussions, and theological throwdowns. Now we’re looking to these revolutionaries to imagine what their reading tastes might look like 239 years after declaring independence from the British and then setting off some fireworks. That’s how it happened, right? Definitely fireworks. Especially the ones shaped like cowboy hats.

George Washington – Lying by Sam Harris
Everyone is familiar this the old fable about Washington, his father’s cherry tree, and the timeless moral, “I cannot tell a lie.” Lucky for George, because Sam Harris’ book suggests that the habit of lying is more than just morally wrong — it’s down right unhealthy! We know our upstanding first President would devour this book, despite his wooden teeth.

Benjamin Franklin – Wine Secrets by Marnie Old
"Behold the rain which descends from heaven upon our vineyards, there it enters the roots of the vines, to be changed into wine, a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy,” is one of the most oft quoted lines of Franklin’s writing. We’re certain he’d love this deeper look into the making of his favorite beverage, and perhaps would appreciate our guide to pairing wines and books.

Thomas Jefferson  – Soil Mates by Sara Alway
At his core Thomas Jefferson was a shy man who just wanted to garden and play the violin. However he was burdened with likeability, gorgeous prose, and numerous other talents that made him indispensable to the early American government. If he was around today we’re sure Jefferson would be enjoying retirement with this garden tip book and whipping up four star meals with the results.

Alexander Hamilton – Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
As the first Secretary of the Treasury and the man behind the founding of our national financial system, we’re all in metaphorical debt to this patriarch. We’re certain if he were around today, Mr. Hamilton would be kicking back at a barbecue with a copy of Freakonomics.

John Hancock – Giving by Bill Clinton
We all know John Hancock for his… well his John Hancock! The man who signed so boldly, also happened to be one of the most philanthropic men of the era. A brave patriot and a wealthy donor, Hancock would probably probably sign his name proudly when leaving rave book reviews for this generous title online.

John Adams – So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson
Poor John Adams, too smart for his own good and ill-tempered all his life. He was never all that popular, especially during his tumultuous presidency, and was often times at odds with his closest friends (looking at you, Jefferson). Perhaps a book about modern public shaming might make him feel a little better about his own unpopularity two centuries ago? Either way, we’re sure he’d have something very intelligent but very controversial to say about this title.

Don’t see your favorite founding father featured here? Have a book suggestion that Franklin might enjoy? Tweet us @QuirkBooks with your suggestions.