Thomas Paine for Today!

Written by: Pam Hoye on Dec 13, 2007 3:29 PM EST

Learning of my cousin's newest book my thoughts traveled back to those early days of Howard Dean's campaign, when his call to citizen-action had been inspired by Thomas Paine and Common Sense. In answer to my question, "How did you come to write a book about Tom Paine?" Craig answered,

"I wrote about Paine because I thought a lot of Americans would be interested in a founding-of-the-nation story that had nothing to do with a Republican perspective. I was WRONG, but at least the reviews and awards are nice!"

When I suggested that perhaps we had not known, as I had not, Craig added,

"You'll love at least some of the Paine book since there's a big founding father debate on the future of democracy with citizens who don't participate."

Thomas Paine: Enlightenment, Revolution, and the Birth of Modern Nations by Craig Nelson is Winner of the 2007 Henry Adams Prize for the year's best book on history and government.

“Craig Nelson vividly brings to life the revolutionary spirit of Paine's ideas and ideals. From Thetford in Norfolk to New Rochelle in New York, Nelson masterly recreates the amazing career of Citizen Tom Paine, who tried to convince his age that ‘Of more worth is one honest man to society... than all the crowned ruffians that ever lived.’”

— Isaac Kramnick. Editor, The Thomas Paine Reader

“Thomas Paine should be required reading for all Americans, not just those interested in their country's political history and current dilemmas.”

— The Bookbag

Read more reviewer comments and story background at http://craignelson.us/tompaine.html

Thomas Paine is available in multiple formats from http://amazon.com

Tags: