In Pursuit of Jefferson: Traveling through Europe with the Most Perplexing Founding Father

In Pursuit of Jefferson is a debut book that combines historical nonfiction with travel books, following the epic trail of Thomas Jefferson through Europe. The book explores Jefferson's life and teachings, offering a unique perspective on a controversial founding father.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc

In Pursuit of Jefferson is a captivating debut that seamlessly blends historical nonfiction with the genre of travel books, appealing to fans of acclaimed authors Bill Bryson and Rinker Buck. The story revolves around an American traveler embarking on a journey through Europe, tracing the epic trail of Thomas Jefferson, a controversial founding father, a man driven by a desire for change, and a truly unique adventure across the continent.

In 1784, Thomas Jefferson found himself in a state of profound despair. The loss of his beloved wife had left him heartbroken, and he was deeply humiliated by a political scandal that had unfolded during the Revolutionary War. Determined to rebuild his life and reshape his destiny, Jefferson embarked on a transformative journey. He traveled extensively throughout Europe, immersing himself in its rich culture, history, and landscapes.

During his travels, Jefferson sought to learn as much as possible, absorbing every bit of knowledge he could gather. His journey was not merely a physical one; it was a mental and intellectual odyssey that would shape the course of his life and the future of a young America. Upon his return to the United States, Jefferson rose to power and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's destiny.

More than two hundred years later, Derek Baxter, a passionate admirer of American history, stumbled upon an obscure travel guide written by Thomas Jefferson—Hints for Americans Traveling Through Europe. Intrigued by the idea of following in the footsteps of a founding father, Baxter embarked on a new journey, using Jefferson's Hints as his guide.

The book takes Baxter on a captivating journey through six countries, offering a wealth of historical detail and insights into the life and times of Jefferson. As Baxter delves deeper into Jefferson's teachings, he discovers that not everything aligns with his original intentions. He confronts the complexities and contradictions of Jefferson's character, challenging his perception of the founding father and his legacy.

In Pursuit of Jefferson is a profound exploration of not only a life-changing trip through Europe but also an unflinching examination of a founding father. Through Baxter's personal journey, the book sheds light on the complexities of human nature, the power of history, and the importance of learning from the past. With a blend of rich historical detail, a sense of humor, and boundless heart, the author invites readers to reflect on how we can be better moving forward by first looking back.

This captivating debut offers a fresh perspective on the life and legacy of Thomas Jefferson, reminding us of the enduring impact of one man's journey and the lessons we can glean from his experiences. In Pursuit of Jefferson is a must-read for history enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone seeking to broaden their understanding of the world and the people who have shaped it.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 164 x 238 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781728225388