Richard Brookhiser’s new biography James Madison is a comprehensive look at one of the founding fathers. As the architect of the Constitution and the fourth President, Madison has secured himself a place in history. His brilliance was matched with a keen political sense that allowed him to push legislative agendas in ways that more renowned leaders of his age could not.

Madison is a fascinating man and Brookhiser is a good writer, but the book doesn’t feel complete. Oh, all the necessary information is here, all the biographical details and timelines and achievements, etc. But the attempt to bring out the distinctiveness of the man comes up short. It seems like the recurring theme of the book, and the only new insights that Brookhiser attempts to offer about Madison, are that 1) Madison understood that public opinion mattered long before we had daily polls, and 2) Madison’s strong/large family background gave him the skills to play well with others. Okay, those are interesting points…but they don’t really add much to the volumes of information about Madison, and they aren’t worthy of a new book.

On the other hand, I knew little about Madison and the book made me more aware of his importance. His role in the War of 1812 was clear to me, and of course his famous wife Dolly Madison is a legend. Madison did some amazing things to shape our country and his voice is still heard today through his writings on constitutional law. I’m glad I read the book so my understanding of his life is deeper.

Still, I’d have a hard time recommending this book.