Andrew Jackson and the Miracle of New Orleans: The Battle That Shaped America's Destiny

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A brief background about Andrew Jackson's beginnings and his perseverance in most difficult situations preludes the Battle of New Orleans. This city is crucial for control of the territory west of the Mississippi River and the wealth such a port provides via trade from Northern and Midwestern regions in North America. If the British capture the city, America could easily collapse as a new country. The British destruction of Washington D.C. scatters the United States government into survival mode. Recent military victories at Fort Henry and Pensacola bolster US spirits but the battles are without reinforcements from a centralized government and a Secretary of War, James Monroe, who recently adds that hat to his Secretary of State collection, an onus he accepts from President Madison due to the casualties of war. 

The author narrates this well-written account with excitement and energy. Brian Kilmeade provides readers with his passion for the subject. He acquaints his audience with the characteristics that set Andrew Jackson apart from most of his contemporaries. 

The Battle of New Orleans showcases Jackson's talent as a tactician, leader, and inspiration to those who follow and fight with him. The man makes enemies as easily as he makes decisions and he is a decisive individual who assesses men, animals, terrain, and his enemy better than most. Kilmeade describes the genius behind events, how outnumbered and over-matched people come together to repulse the mighty British Navy and sophisticated, seasoned soldiers in the climax. This historical turning point in America's story exists because of a sense of duty and drive of one man, General Andrew Jackson.

A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court by Mark Twain, Nick Offerman (Narrator)

4 out of 5 stars  ****

A nineteenth century dying man dreams about being transposed into thirteenth century England, Camelot, where he uses his Yankee wit and ingenuity to survive. He encounters knights, noblemen, peasants and wizards. He not only survives, he rises to a rank that makes him a feared opponent throughout England and a prosperous friend and adviser to the King. He gives himself the title, The Boss. Humor keeps the story moving along as The Boss anticipates and plans maneuvers to stay one step ahead of his dazzled subjects. Merlin the magician, once bested, is a major protagonist in the plot because of his lost prestige.

Mark Twain writes this story using the Old English vernacular for the simple folk and the pompous Royal King's English for King Arthur's Court. Twain masters the dialect appropriate for each character spoken expertly by narrator, Nick Offerman. The author's use of this historical fantasy setting and an epic tale of chivalry breathes life into his own story that applies future principles to yesteryear's issues. Twain leaves his mark on Camelot as only he can.