Valley Forge

Written by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin

Narrated by Jeremy Bobb

The #1 New York Times bestselling authors of The Heart of Everything That Is return with “a thorough, nuanced, and enthralling account” (The Wall Street Journal) about one of the most inspiring—and underappreciated—chapters in American history: the Continental Army’s six-month transformation in Valley Forge.

In December 1777, some 12,000 members of America’s Continental Army stagger into a small Pennsylvania encampment near British-occupied Philadelphia. Their commander in chief, George Washington, is at the lowest ebb of his military career. Yet, somehow, Washington, with a dedicated coterie of advisers, sets out to breathe new life into his military force. Against all odds, they manage to turn a bobtail army of citizen soldiers into a professional fighting force that will change the world forever.

Valley Forge is the story of how that metamorphosis occurred. Bestselling authors Bob Drury and Tom Clavin show us how this miracle was accomplished despite thousands of American soldiers succumbing to disease, starvation, and the elements. At the center of it all is George Washington as he fends off pernicious political conspiracies. The Valley Forge winter is his—and the revolution’s—last chance at redemption. And after six months in the camp, Washington fulfills his destiny, leading the Continental Army to a stunning victory in the Battle of Monmouth Court House.

Valley Forge is the riveting true story of a nascent United States toppling an empire. Using new and rarely seen contemporaneous documents—and drawing on a cast of iconic characters and remarkable moments that capture the innovation and energy that led to the birth of our nation—Drury and Clavin provide a “gripping, panoramic account” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) of the definitive account of this seminal and previously undervalued moment in the battle for American independence.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
• Release date: Oct 2, 2018
• ISBN: 9781508252849

Bob Drury

Bob Drury is the author/coauthor/editor of nine books. He has written for numerous publications, including The New York Times, Vanity Fair, Men’s Journal, and GQ. He is currently a contributing editor and foreign correspondent for Men’s Health. He lives in Manasquan, New Jersey.

[Dave Denstaedt · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I couldn’t put it down. Such graphic description of the conditions and affects on the groups was enlightening. He brought in enough characters to help the big picture.

[Daniel Fontaine · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An excellent history that I believe holds back none of negative traits of our foundation, most notably, the tensions of slavery with the then “Union “ of states. England,like the USA in Vietnam ,fought with one hand tied behind her back.
Nevertheless we should all give thanks for our own freedom enjoyed today. It was not easily gained, as this book well documents.

[robert rodriguez · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Excellent book on the revolution and the key players that made America who we are today. One of the very best books on the topic.

[Jessica Sands · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love the book. It was well written and detailed.

[jarratt_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Very detailed account of those brutal months the Continental Army endured. Highly recommend.

[valerieandbooks · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I got this last Christmas, and had been reading over six months, until it was finally finished. Not a bad book (although there's heavy usage of secondary sources). But, since I live near Valley Forge (and have been there a few times), am familiar with the history surrounding it. This also covers some area events before and after Valley Forge, such as the Battle of the Brandywine which is basically down the road from me. A good refresher in some parts for me.

[muddyboy · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A well researched history on the events prior, during and following Washington's harsh Winter stay at Valley Forge during the American Revolution. It took tremendous leadership skills to keep the army together in terrible conditions with a total like of items needed to be an effective fighting unit (like food). I really loved learning about lesser known men like Nathaniel Greene and Baron Steuben (and Louis the 16th) who were crucial in the American victory. A must read for history buffs.