Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine, and the Murder of a President

Nonfiction narrative by Candice Millard.


This book is proof that reality is stranger than fiction! What a fascinating account of a president I knew nothing about prior to reading this!  I was so impressed by James Garfield’s humility, integrity, and servant leadership. I was so angry at the pride of the doctor whose incompetence ended up killing him. I was astounded at how the assassin lived with such deep psychosis and extensive lawbreaking for so many years, yet was never caught or locked up. And I absolutely loved the vice president’s change of heart and the stranger who inspired him to be better!

Note: there is brief mention of a free love commune where people have multiple sexual partners, but beyond that I can’t think of any adult content at all! Highly recommended for teens and adults.

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