About the Series
The Making of America series traces the constitutional history of the United States through overlapping biographies.
The debates that raged when our nation was founded have been argued ever since: How should the Constitution be interpreted? What is the meaning, and where are the limits, of personal liberty? What is the proper role of the federal government? Who should be included in “we the people”?
Each biography in the series tells the story of an American leader who played a major role in shaping the United States of today. The result is a history of American constitutional law through a series of overlapping biographies.
Book #2
Grateful American Book Prize: Honorable Mention
★ Starred Review: “This book is an eye-opening, accurately researched, well-written depiction of Andrew Jackson and his presidency. Kanefield does an excellent job of describing Jackson’s qualities as a leader—both good and bad—while interweaving his personal life and the impact it had on his role as president. Highly Recommended.” School Library Connection.
“This evenhanded, largely unflattering portrait of Andrew Jackson acknowledges that he was a controversial figure in his time and remains so to contemporary Americans, venerated by some and despised by others. . . . In assessing his legacy, Kanefield observes, “Jackson’s brand of conservatism—including his nationalism and notions of white male supremacy—threads its way through American history from his time to ours, and remains a powerful force in our politics.” A concise profile that successfully reveals Jackson’s personal complexities and contradictions and his controversial legacy as a public figure.” Kirkus Reviews.
“This biography critically examines one of America’s most polarizing presidents. Jackson’s backwoodsy lifestyle and fierce determination positioned him as a political outsider and voice of the people. The narrative highlights Jackson’s public service, military leadership, and two-term presidency. His successes and failures, as well as his controversial treatment of Native Americans, are objectively portrayed. Drawings and inserts enhance the text.” Horn Book Guide Reviews
From the Book Bloggers
“Author Teri Kanefield has crafted an exceptionally well-researched biography of President Andrew Jackson. . . . and provides amazing insight into our constitutional history and helps us understand the roots of so many persistent American conflicts. It’s a “wow” book that will blow the minds of many an adolescent reader.” Richie Partington, Book Blogger
” . . . this book hits all of the highlights and low points of Jackson’s life, from his childhood during the Revolutionary War, to his elopement with Rachel Donelson, his military ambitions, and divisive politics.” Intellectual Recreation
“Teri Kanefield does an excellent job of giving us a well rounded view of Andrew Jackson . . . This is a book that should be in every school library.” The Musings of a Book Addict.