The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris by David McCulloughMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Of all the David McCullough books I've read, I have enjoyed this one the most thus far. It is about Americans who went to Paris for educational purposes, mainly, during the years 1820-1900. Many of them were artists so this book is full of information about the arts scene in Paris, including educational opportunities and visits to the Louvre where art copying went on daily. It was an accepted part of life supported by the Louvre staff. Since I also aspire to improving my artistic skills I found this information to be fascinating. A few of the artists featured in this book are Samuel Morse (inventor of the telegraph), John Singer Sargent, and Mary Cassatt. (There are many others written about in this book.)
However art is not the only reason Americans went to Paris to study during the 1800's. Many were there to learn medical skills. In Paris they were able to see dozens or even hundreds of cases of every ailment whereas in the USA it was not possible to get that level of expertise in any one disease or condition. To be honest, a few of their French professors sound like true horrid cads who just happened to be respected physicians, but I still found the chapter on medical education to be fascinating.
Most other David McCullough books contain fascinating American history but are (for me) slogs at time. But this is one I never lost interest in. There was a new adventure in every chapter. I'm grateful to have read this book.
During 2024-2026 I've been reading all the David McCullough books in the order they were written. I have only two more books to read at this point. It has been an educational experience along the journey through my life of literary appreciation.
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