Abigail Adams: A Biography

Abigail Adams, wife and mother of presidents, warned her husband John that women ""would forment a rebellion'' if they were denied rights in the new republic. Journalist Levin draws freely on the First Lady's diaries and voluminous correspondence in which she commented on political issues and recounted the 54-year partnership with her husband in rearing a family, forming a nation and handling delicate diplomacy abroad. Intellectually keen and curious, Abigail Adams, as shown here, was resourceful, loyal and fiercely patriotic. While accepting the sacrifice of personal life to public service, she bitterly resented her husband's extended absences. A ``worldly puritan'' and capable farm manager, she learned how to behave with royalty and as hostess to statesmen including Jefferson, with whom she maintained a stormy friendship. Levin furnishes the historical frame for the domestic and public events that inspired the remarkable actions and writings of Abigail Adams. Photos not seen by PW. History Book Club, BOMC and QPBC selections. (May 18)