FOL University with Author Stacy Schiff

FOL University, the Friends of the Library’s scholarly lecture series, will feature Pulitzer Prize–winning biographer Stacy Schiff discussing her latest book, The Revolutionary: Samuel Adams, which recounts Adams’ instrumental role in triggering the events that would lead to the American Revolution.  Schiff will appear in conversation with John O'Connell, former President of the PWPL Board of Trustees.

Though Samuel Adams is typically overshadowed by such towering contemporaries as Washington, Jefferson, and Adams’ second cousin, John Adams, Samuel’s behind-the-scenes machinations were a crucial factor in setting in motion the wheels of revolution. Schiff enthusiastically digs through much of the limited material available on her subject. She exhaustively dissects whatever was written about him by his contemporaries, and explores the numerous politically charged essays that he submitted under pseudonyms to newspapers. Schiff provides a penetrating analysis of Samuel’s tactics and motivations, and traces his story from his unassuming and somewhat aimless roots as a failed businessman to his role as a highly influential American statesman. What is revealed is how his grounded idealism was present from the outset and remained consistent throughout his life.

Schiff’s most recent books, Cleopatra: A Life and The Witches: Salem, 1692, were both #1 bestsellers. She also is the author of Véra (Mrs. Vladimir Nabokov), winner of the Pulitzer Prize; Saint-Exupéry: A Biography, a Pulitzer finalist; and A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America, winner of the George Washington Book Prize. 

Copies of The Revolutionary: Samuel Adams will be available for purchase and signing.  (Sponsored by the Friends of the Library)

PLEASE NOTE: This is a 'hybrid' event that can be attended either "In-Person" or "Online" on the Zoom platform. You can choose which option you wish to register for below in the "Do you want to attend in-person or online?" dropdown menu below.