Nathaniel Philbrick is a renowned maritime historian who brings the past alive with his captivating storytelling and meticulous research. His books have garnered critical acclaim and topped bestseller lists, making him a favorite among history buffs and casual readers alike. But with so many titles to choose from, where do you begin? Fear not, fellow history explorer! Today, we present Nathaniel Philbrick’s best books ranked based on Goodreads ratings.
In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex
Published in 2000
The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex is a true story about a whaling ship sunk by a giant sperm whale in 1820. The surviving crew faces starvation, dehydration, and unthinkable desperation in a harrowing fight for survival on the open ocean. This National Book Award winner, by Nathaniel Philbrick, explores the disaster that inspired Moby Dick.
Genre: History, Adventure, Survival
Goodreads Rating: 4.15
Valiant Ambition: George Washington, Benedict Arnold, and the Fate of the American Revolution
Published in 2016
Valiant Ambition dives into the American Revolution through the complex relationship between George Washington and Benedict Arnold. Nathaniel Philbrick sheds new light on this critical period, portraying Washington as a developing leader and Arnold as a war hero whose grievances ultimately lead to betrayal. This New York Times bestseller explores the messy middle of the revolution, highlighting the fragility of the cause and the men who shaped its destiny.
Genre: American History
Goodreads Rating: 4.12
In the Hurricane’s Eye: The Genius of George Washington and the Victory at Yorktown
Published in 2018
The Genius of George Washington and the Victory at Yorktown completes Nathaniel Philbrick’s American Revolution trilogy. This book focuses on the year leading up to the pivotal Yorktown victory. Philbrick argues that American triumph hinged not just on land battles, but on a crucial naval engagement, the Battle of the Chesapeake. This lesser-known fight, won by the French, trapped the British army at Yorktown, making American victory almost inevitable. The book highlights George Washington’s strategic genius in coordinating with the French navy, a complex task that proved essential for American independence.
Genre: American History, American Revolutionary War, Biography
Goodreads Rating: 4.11
Bunker Hill: A City, a Siege, a Revolution
Published in 2013
Nathaniel Philbrick’s Bunker Hill: A City, A Siege, A Revolution goes beyond the famous battle. It explores the entire siege of Boston, from the Boston Tea Party to the British evacuation, giving voice to ordinary citizens and highlighting the human cost of war. While the battle itself is a turning point, the book delves deeper into the motivations of both sides and the strategic realities that shaped the early days of the American Revolution.
Genre: American History, American Revolutionary War, Biography
Goodreads Rating: 4.05
The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Published in 2010
Buckle up for a thrilling saga of clashing titans in The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Nathaniel Philbrick dives into this legendary showdown, deconstructing the myths and bringing the fight between Custer’s 7th Cavalry and Lakota Sioux warriors, led by Sitting Bull, to life. Prepare to be transported to the unforgiving Great Plains as Philbrick explores the lead-up to the battle, the strategies of both sides, and the reasons behind Custer’s infamous “Last Stand.”
Genre: American History
Goodreads Rating: 4.03
Sea of Glory: America’s Voyage of Discovery, the U.S. Exploring Expedition, 1838-1842
Published in 2001
Set sail for adventure with Sea of Glory: America’s Voyage of Discovery! Chronicling the thrilling U.S. Exploring Expedition of 1838-1842, this book by Nathaniel Philbrick immerses you in a journey of exploration. Embark on a voyage of scientific discovery and charting of new lands, all against the backdrop of the vast and sometimes perilous Pacific Ocean.
Genre: American History
Goodreads Rating: 4.03
Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War
Published in 2006
A Story of Courage, Community, and War by Nathaniel Philbrick isn’t just about the Pilgrims’ well-known voyage and Thanksgiving. It delves deeper, exploring the entire first 55 years of Plymouth Colony. The book details the Pilgrims’ struggles, their initial dependence on the Wampanoag people, and the descent into the brutal King Philip’s War. It sheds light on a more complex and nuanced story of America’s beginnings.
Genre: American History
Goodreads Rating: 3.88
Travels with George: In Search of Washington and His Legacy
Published September 2021
In Search of Washington and His Legacy, Nathaniel Philbrick takes a unique approach to understanding America’s first president. He retraces the journeys Washington made as president, weaving together a historical narrative with Philbrick’s travels across the modern United States. This blend allows readers to see how the nation Washington envisioned has evolved, while also grappling with Washington’s complex legacy as a leader, reluctant politician, and slave owner.
Genre: Travel, Biography, American History
Goodreads Rating: 3.84
Thank you for reading. These are Nathaniel Philbrick’s best books ranked according to Goodreads. But we want to know how you would rank them, let us know and join the conversation on X
