Literature Reflecting Life

“[Tolkien and Lewis’s] depictions of the struggles of Middle-earth and Narnia do not represent a flight from reality, but rather a return to a more realistic view of the world as we actually find it” (xvi).

The Book

For many, the stories of hobbits and fauns conjure up memories from childhood and the clear theme of good versus evil, both on the battlefield and within each character. In A Hobbit, A Wardrobe, and A Great War, author Joseph Loconte argues that the writings of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis were influenced by their service in World War I. Tolkien served as a battalion signals officer and began writing The Lord of the Rings while he was on the front lines. The hobbits reflected the British soldiers he encountered, in both courage and duty. Lewis was a 2^nd lieutenant who saw active trench warfare.  

Loconte begins by helping the reader understand two contexts: the world in the early 20^th century and the context Tolkien and Lewis grew up in: an era of progress and industrialization, science elevated over religion, and duty. World War I entered this context like a bull in a china shop. The views of man’s rationality were lost in trench warfare and the mass industrialization of weapons destroyed nature. The post-World War I narrative reflected humanity’s disillusionment with life and religion. Tolkien and Lewis’s writing ran counter to that by combining tragedy and hope, showing the individual struggle against evil and the eventual triumph over it. Grief and joy comingle in Middle-earth and Narnia, just as they did on Armistice Day. Loconte concludes by stating, “After returning to England from the front, Tolkien and Lewis might easily have joined the ranks of the rootless and disbelieving. Instead, they became convinced there was only one truth, one singular event, that could help the weary and brokenhearted find their way home: the Return of the King” (193).

A Hobbit, A Wardrobe, and A Great War is a unique book. It serves as a biography, historical account, and commentary. The narrative relies heavily on Tolkien and Lewis’s own words (in the moment and reflections), historians, and prominent and average people from the time period. While World War I is a well-known topic, Loconte uses a variety of personal accounts and imagery to make the story feel new. The best part of the book is the generous use of quotes from The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia to help support the author’s claims and bring new context to the characters.

The Place

The Marion E. Wade Center is an ideal stop for those who enjoy the writings of Tolkien and Lewis. But it doesn’t just focus on those two authors. There are five more British authors (Dorothy L. Sayers, George MacDonald, G.K. Chesterton, Owen Barfield, and Charles Williams) represented, who also blended their faith with their literary work.

On the campus of Wheaton College, the Center includes both a reading room and a small museum. The reading room is open to the public with several guidelines that must be followed. The museum is in one large room that showcases a rotation of exhibits. There is a lot to read and learn about the seven British authors, as well as artifacts on display. I was particularly excited to see the wardrobe that is believed to serve as the inspiration for the wardrobe in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

The Marion E. Wade Center has free admission and plenty of parking. The museum will not take more than half a day and it isn’t far from downtown Wheaton. Smaller children who are fans of Narnia will enjoy seeing the wardrobe, but the rest of the exhibits might be better for older children and adults. 

The Mystery of McKinley

“[McKinley] had learned through a lifetime of politics that his quiet ways somehow translated into a commanding presence; his was a heavy quiet that could be exploited stealthily” (4).

The Book

President McKinley is often overshadowed by other presidents who had larger than life personalities or seemed to leave a bigger stamp on the country. However, in President McKinley: Architect of the American Century author Robert W. Merry argues that the 25^th president had more of an impact that we realize. Merry begins his biography by taking the reader to the end: the 1901 Pan-American Exposition where McKinley was assassinated. By beginning here, Merry is able to weave a brief character sketch with a hindsight view of McKinley.

The book then transitions to laying the foundations for McKinley’s life: development of Ohio, ancestors and family, strong faith, and the value of education. All of these had a role in who McKinley became, but so did his service in the army during the Civil War. During this time, he was recognized for managerial skills, earned many battlefield promotions, and developed a mentee relationship with future President Rutherford B. Hayes. After the Civil War, McKinley studied law and moved to Canton, OH to practice. It was here that he met Ida Saxton; their early marriage saw numerous tragedies, but they remained devoted to each other. McKinley was noted for how attentive he was to Ida, who suffered from numerous physical ailments. Despite her ailments, Ida supported her husband’s political ambitions, following him from Congress to Ohio’s governor to president.

There is so much to cover in McKinley’s four years in office (one full term and a partial second term): among the policy issues he inherited were the gold vs. silver standard, annexation of Hawaii, and Spain’s battle in Cuba. The struggle in Cuba led to the Spanish-American War. Merry argues that this war brought American onto the world stage like never before: territories were gained, older powers took notice, and a large standing army was established. In addition to the issues he inherited, McKinley also faced decisions on an isthmus canal, trade, monopolies and trusts, race, and American interests during the Boxer Rebellion in China. In the midst of all this, McKinley would prioritize Ida’s needs-endearing him to the country.

Merry packs a lot into a one volume biography. This is more than the biography of a president; it is an insightful look into a specific time and context. One aspect that I really enjoyed was all the background information that described Ohio (politics, demographics, and industry), the key players of the era, national politics, campaigns, and policies. This provided context for the era and McKinley’s words and decisions. President McKinley leaves the reader with the sense that McKinley deserves more than we give him credit. By relying on his own words and descriptions from family, friends, and other politicians, we uncover more about the man who had a significant impact on how America was viewed in the 20^th century.

The Place

The William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum welcomes visitors to explore the life of President McKinley, the history of Stark County, and science exhibits. Also, on the grounds is the McKinley Monument, the final resting place of President and Ida McKinley and their two daughters (who died as children). There is an admission fee for the museum and the memorial is only open April-November during museum hours.

The museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts pertaining to McKinley, including: his rocking chair (used during his front porch campaigning), his White House desk, and Ida’s piano. The McKinley Gallery is one large room in the museum and visitors will have time to explore the other areas as well. I would recommend that you spend time learning more about the McKinley Monument and don’t let the 108 steps deter you. The design and symbolism are impressive, but what is more impressive is the outpouring of support from Ohioans, local school children, and numerous states to build it. McKinley was clearly a beloved president.

Mistakes and Surprises at the Pacific Fleet

“All in all, there was a sense that nothing truly bad could happen under the sun of Oahu, even if the Japanese did show up” (257).

The Book

The lead-up to the attack at Pearl Harbor is one of those times in American history where hindsight becomes twenty-twenty and everyone seems to have an opinion. Countdown to Pearl Harbor: The Twelve Days to the Attack relies on eye witness accounts, news reports, and research to zero in on what happened. Author Steve Twomey opens with the Army Privates tasked with practicing their radar skills in northern Oahu the morning of December 7, 1941. The narrative choice was interesting because the reader already knows what is coming, but is still kept in suspense. The story then reverts back to February 1941, providing background information, before fast forwarding to the twelve days mentioned in the title.

On November 26, 1941, the Japanese fleet sailed for Pearl Harbor. Thirty ships traveled 3,150 miles in complete radio silence and managed to evade all detection. Meanwhile, in America, there was recognition that war would most likely come with Japan, but it would not be significant. The focus was on helping the Allies fight the Nazis in Europe and on the Atlantic Ocean. Both Navy ships and Army planes were sent to the Allies instead of Pearl Harbor; resulting in an inability to conduct daily searches around Oahu.

While the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was a surprise, there were several mistakes and miscues that may have helped the Pacific Fleet prepare. On November 27^th, a war warning was issued, but it didn’t name Pearl Harbor specifically. The Navy and Army weren’t synced in their defense plans, showing a need for one commander over the joint forces. Intelligence codes were not always shared and many Americans underestimated Japan because of racism and feelings of superiority.

Twomey takes a well-known topic, researchers it thoroughly, and sheds new light on it for the reader. One of the ways Twomey helps shed new light is his focus on the key players. The reader is able to get to know who the military leaders were, particularly naval, and their personalities. In addition, the narrative relies on first hand accounts from both significant leaders and everyday people. Finally, there is a seamless flow between descriptions of the people and the locales, building the suspense and drawing the reader into the story.

The Place
The draw for most visitors to Oahu is the USS Arizona Memorial; however, just across the loch is Ford Island and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, which are also rich with history and artifacts. Prior and during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Ford Island was home to Navy aircraft which were targeted by Japanese planes. The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is housed in hangers that still have bullet holes in the windows. Inside the museum, visitors will learn about life on Hawaii prior to 1941 and then be immersed in the aviation Battle of the Pacific. The hangers are full of battle tested planes and larger than life maps (on the wall and floor) with special effects.

Ford Island is still an active military base, so visitors must ride the shuttle bus from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and no bags are allowed (for security reasons). Specific tours are available, or you can walk through the museum on your own. There is a General Admission fee. If you aren’t able to visit soon, the film Tora! Tora!Tora! provides a great visual companion to Countdown to Pearl Harbor. My family watched it after returning from our trip to Hawaii.

The Glorious Cause of America

“We are in the very midst of a revolution,” wrote John Adams, “the most complete, unexpected and remarkable of any in the history of nations” (136).

The Book

It is incredible to think of all that happened during one pivotal year and author David McCullough uses 1776 to unpack a variety of perspectives and events.

The book is split into three parts: The Siege [of Boston], Fateful Summer, and The Long Retreat. To help provide background, the first part begins in London as King George III opens Parliament in October 1775. McCullough takes the time to describe the character of King George III, the perspective of Great Britain, and the various voices raised regarding potential war with the Colonies. I found this first chapter helpful because I honestly didn’t know much about this part of history. The second chapter introduces the reader to the Colonies and the Continental Army laying siege to Boston. Throughout the rest of the book, McCullough intertwines the stories and perspectives of Great Britain and the Continental Army.

What struck me the most were McCullough’s descriptions of the Continental Army, which at the beginning really wasn’t an army. It was a collection of rag-tag volunteers who lacked discipline and uniformity, whose camp was plagued with filth and sickness, and who was constantly in danger of losing men whose enlistment was up. It made me marvel at the eventual success and that it held together long enough for success. In fact, 1776 was not a year of military victories for General Washington and his men. The one constant was the courage and perseverance of those who truly believed in the fight for independence.

1776 builds upon what we learn in school to help provide new perspectives and a greater understanding. It dives deeper into one year, but doesn’t overwhelm the reader. There are numerous mini stories that help to place the reader in the story and McCullough uses them to introduce us to average people (Loyalists, Hessian soldiers, Patriots, and members of the Continental Army).

The Place
The Museum of the American Revolution is a welcome addition to Philadelphia’s list of landmarks; a museum that houses the artifacts and walks a visitor through the story of American independence. It is a fully immersive museum that takes full advantage of technological advancements. Artifacts and reproductions are interspersed with touch screens to help visitors learn more. The story told by the Museum of the American Revolution covers all the subplots from start to finish, leaving visitors with a greater appreciation for the everyday patriots committed to independence.

Nestled among numerous other sites important to the story of 1776, the Museum of the American Revolution is easy to get to by car or public transportation. When I visited, we took the PATCO Speedline from South Jersey and walked to the museum. There are also several parking garages in the area. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum.

One of the gems of Philadelphia is the close proximity of the landmarks. Carpenters Hall (the location of the First Continental Congress) is across the street from the museum. A short walking distance away is Benjamin Franklin’s home and Betsy Ross’s home. Even if you do not have time to tour these places, it is still a neat experience to walk through so much history.

Lincoln- Honest Abe and Father Abraham

“A. Lincoln continues to fascinate us because he eludes simple definitions and final judgments” (3).


The Book

Any author writing a new biography of Abraham Lincoln has an insurmountable task: a public who is already familiar with the life and times of the 16^th President. Ronald C. White, Jr. takes on the task aided by the Lincoln Legal Papers and hosts of new primary documents. A. Lincoln: A Biography is well worth the invested time (676 pages) and the narrative is easy to follow.

White opens each chapter with a quote from Lincoln and a brief passage that sets the stage for the chapter. This immediately places the reader in Lincoln’s shoes: picturing his environment, what he saw and did, interactions with other people, and the culture. Lincoln’s story begins with a brief introduction to his ancestors and parents, flows through his political and professional development, and ends by honing in on his presidency. Of course, the basic biographical information will be known to many readers. However, White writes in an engaging way and brings in quite a bit of information I did not know. He dives into Lincoln’s thought processes, showing how a man (without a formal education) was a dedicated researcher, careful thinker and planner, and investigator who weighed all sides of an issue. What was particularly fascinating for me was to follow White as he traced Lincoln’s thought processes and growth in beliefs as president. For example, Lincoln took his first public stand against slavery in 1837; yet, he knew that the timing had to be right to interject slavery into the rationale for the Civil War.

A. Lincoln also provides insight into how Lincoln prepared his speeches and an analysis of the speeches. Lincoln appreciated good oratory and was able to communicate well in a variety of ways, but was also nervous prior to delivering a speech. White argues that, “[Lincoln’s] most developed political weapon [was] public speaking” (299). Based on what I read, I would go one step further and say it was all communication. Lincoln could connect through a speech, personal conversation, private letter, or public letter.

The more I read A. Lincoln, the more I come to admire, respect, and like President Lincoln. He was a man committed to the principles of Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bible. The final chapter unpacks Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address in detail, showing a president who understand the consequences of the past four years and the role God plays in the lives of man.

The Place
If the regular readers haven’t already noticed, I read and write quite a bit about President Lincoln. In fact, I have been fascinated with him since I was four years old. What better way to culminate years of fascination than a visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum?

Visitors walk into a rotunda and are prompted to travel through two sections: Lincoln’s early life through the 1861 election and his presidency. Lifesize and realistic statutes bring the people and scenes to life, with artifacts, technology, and explanations interspersed. This Museum is engaging and well-thought out, helping visitors get to know Lincoln, appreciate why history is so vital, and walk away with a new appreciation for the 16^th President.

I read A. Lincoln after visiting the Museum, but still saw a strong connection between how both treated the saga of the Emancipation Proclamation. Author White shows the development of this document through other events, in order to show the reader the process and seriousness of the issue. The Museum captures Lincoln’s decision through dramatic images and technology. I will never forget seeing the climax of this part of the museum: there is a single hallway lined with pre-recorded actors passionately stating their views on the Emancipation Proclamation. The narrow hallway draws your attention to the lone figure of Lincoln, standing over his desk with the paper is his hand. Behind him, a screen airs silhouette images of slavery and the audio provide more views of the issue. This exhibit and White’s book help to truly capture the significance of Lincoln’s decision to free the slaves.

The Museum is located in downtown Springfield, IL. There is an admission cost and ample parking available on the street or in a public garage (both have a fee). Before you leave, make sure to talk a family photo with the Lincoln family in the rotunda and check out Union Station Park across the street, with several Lincoln statues. If you are in Springfield for more than a day, there are plenty of other Lincoln sites to explore (see previous blog posts for descriptions).

The Enemy Below

“…since 1954 [U-505] has rested high and dry among the trees in Jackson Park alongside the Museum [of Science and Industry] near the shore of Lake Michigan” (1).

The Book

Rear Admiral Daniel V. Gallery, USN presents the reader with a unique memoir: the capture of a Nazi submarine, the U-505. But it is more than a recounting of one moment at sea, Twenty Million Tons Under the Sea packs in the Battle of the Atlantic, U-boat details, a biography of the U-505, and editorializing from a seasoned sailor.

The majority of the book focuses on the story of the U-505. Work on the U-505 was completed in 1941; it was first stationed off the coast of Africa and then in the Caribbean. Under its first captain, the U-505 was successful in her quest to sink many ships. However, when the captain changed, the crew encountered “bad luck.” Most likely that luck can be traced to French workers sabotaging the U-boats when they came back to port. Intermittently, Gallery will interject the U-505 narrative with an explanation of where he was stationed or naval tactics. The book moves towards its climactic moment: a play by play of the June 1944 capture of U-505. In the final pages of the book, Gallery details how the U-505 ended up in the Museum of Science and Industry and shares his thoughts on war and what we should learn and remember.

Like most memoirs, Twenty Million Tons Under the Sea, reads like a conversation. Gallery writes what happened, provides his own opinions, and creates dialogue for the U-505 crew. Some of the information in the book comes from the captured records on the U-505 as well as correspondence with the crew after World War II. The best part about this book is the focus on a part of World War II that is not prominent in education. Gallery seems aware that his reader lacks detailed knowledge of submarines and the Battle of the Atlantic, taking the time to explain and clarify.

Today, the U-505 is beached in a museum, but it is much more than a popular exhibit: on September 25, 1954 it was “dedicated as a memorial to the 55,000 Americans who have lost their lives at sea” (325).

The Place
The U-505 exhibit immerses visitors into the story of the “first enemy war ship captured [by the United States Navy] in battle on the high seas since 1815” (315). The walk to the submarine explains the Battle of the Atlantic from the toll U-boats took on shipping to the capture of U-505. Then, you turn a corner and are confronted with the massive U-boat; looking down on it, as the American sailors would have in 1944. Visitors to the museum can pay extra for a tour of the submarine; this is well worth the cost. The tour is popular, so it would be wise to buy tickets beforehand.

While the U-505 exhibit is impressive, it is not the only exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry. Visitors can ride through a replica coal mine, explore genetics and watch baby chicks hatch, and view the changes in transportation (among other exhibits). There is something for everyone: young and old, science geeks and history nerds. There is an entrance fee, with some exhibits requiring an extra cost (with a timed ticket), and an underground parking garage (also with a fee).

The Last Hawaiian Monarch

“…I was driven from my prison-once my palace…” (295).

The Book

Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen provides a unique perspective into the life of Liliuokalani, the last Hawaiian monarch. Originally published in 1898, the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy is still fresh on Liliuokalani’s mind. The publisher’s foreword provides a brief introduction to the author, history of Hawaii, and the complicated relationship between native Hawaiians and those of American descent. All the chapters following are Liliuokalani’s words and commentary on political events.

While time is spent on her early life, the focus of the book is on Liliuokalani’s adult life and the last Hawaiian monarchs. Born in 1838, Liliuokalani was adopted as a baby by a Hawaiian high chief (a common practice) and in 1877 she was named the heir apparent to the throne by her brother King Kalakaua. After her brother’s death, Liliuokalani became Queen in 1891 and reigned until a provisional government was forced onto the Hawaiian people in 1894.

Liliuokalani is cognizant of the fact that many of her readers aren’t Hawaiian, so she explains the customs and heritage of the island nation. The autobiography is written so that it is easy to follow and presents a window into what life was like during the last days of the monarchy. Liliuokalani tells the Hawaiian side (her side) of the revolt to overthrow the monarchy and strongly presents the cause for Hawaiian autonomy. She calls out the individuals who spread rumors and lies and wrestled the control of the islands from the constitutional monarchy.

The final chapter of Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen ends with a plea to the American readers: see the overthrow for what it was and reject the treaty of annexation.

The Place

Iolani Palace is a must see on a visit to Honolulu. The palace is restored to what it looked like when the last two Hawaiian monarchs (King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani) reigned. Although it isn’t a large palace, the attention to detail and architecture are striking and beautiful: the royal crest is seen in window etchings and wall engravings. Each room has a proud history and shares the story of Hawaiian culture. But, there is also an underlying current when the visitor is confronted with the reality of the overthrow of the monarchy. Queen Liliuokalani’s throne room became the location of her trial for treason and an upstairs bedroom became her prison.

There are two tour options: guided tours and self-led audio tours. When my family visited, the guided tours were sold out and we took the self-led audio tour. This provided a unique way to learn about the Hawaiian monarchy at your own pace. Visitors are given headphones and an iPod preloaded with audio tracks for each of the rooms. A visitor can choose to hear the standard information or choose to go more in-depth. I enjoyed this opportunity to explore the various rooms and learn about the monarchs who resided there. Visitors can also explore the basement galleries to learn about the restoration of the Iolani Palace and see various artifacts.