47 pages • 1 hour read
Midnight Rising
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Book Brief
384
Book • Nonfiction
Harpers Ferry, Virginia • 1850s
2011
Adult
18+ years
1200L
Super Short Summary
Midnight Rising: John Brown and the Raid That Sparked the Civil War by Tony Horwitz explores the life of John Brown, whose 1859 raid on Harpers Ferry aimed to incite a revolution against enslavement, tracing his early influences, radicalization, violent actions in Kansas, meticulous planning of the raid, and the raid’s aftermath, ultimately propelling the nation towards the Civil War. The book includes detailed descriptions of violence, racism and racial injustice, and enslavement.
Informative
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
6,844 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Midnight Rising by Tony Horwitz offers a well-researched and vivid account of John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry, receiving praise for its engaging narrative and historical depth. Critics commend Horwitz's storytelling and character portrayal but note occasional dense passages that may challenge some readers. Overall, it's valued for its insightful look at a pivotal moment in American history.
Who Should Read Midnight Rising?
Readers who enjoy Midnight Rising by Tony Horwitz are typically history enthusiasts intrigued by America’s pre-Civil War era and radical abolitionist movements. Comparable to those who appreciate David McCullough’s John Adams or Doris Kearns Goodwin’s Team of Rivals, they seek richly detailed narratives rooted in historical events and figures.
6,844 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
384
Book • Nonfiction
Harpers Ferry, Virginia • 1850s
2011
Adult
18+ years
1200L
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