PEOPLE OF THE DREAM
by Michael V. Macijeski
A historical novel focuses on major moments in America’s past.
Macijeski first takes readers to Pennsylvania in 1754. Johann Schultz is an indentured servant from Germany. After seven years of hard work, he is set to earn his freedom in 1755. When Johann ventures to Philadelphia to make purchases, he hears Benjamin Franklin advocating for America’s independence. Once Johann gains his personal liberation, he plans to free an enslaved person named Cuffy that he has worked alongside. But first Johann must survive action in the French and Indian War. It is just one of the many conflicts to come as the novel spans the 18th century to the present day. Everything from the Civil War to World War II and the Iraq War is featured, as different characters come and go. These characters, some of whom are the descendants of Johann, Cuffy, and other main players, experience the vast, difficult moments of American life. In addition to the various wars, the book examines an assortment of subjects. The westward expansion of the railroad and the rising popularity of jazz in the 1920s are just a few of the noncombatant domestic events. This swiftly paced, richly detailed survey is a grand undertaking. A lot is covered in under 400 pages. At different moments, the explanatory text helps move things along. This is the case with a period of World War I fighting that “came to be known as the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in late September and early October 1918.” The overall excitement stems from seeing what will happen to the main characters and their relatives. But those players do not always have intriguing things to say. For instance, one individual remarks “That was some sweet jazz” after witnessing King Oliver and the New Orleans Creole Jazz Band in action. The statement does not tell readers a lot about the music. Yet, even with some obvious assertions along the way, this whirlwind tour can certainly teach the audience many valuable historical lessons.
A vibrant, fast-paced, dialogue-heavy adventure that explores American history.