Thomas Jefferson~From Boy to Man

5 Star Review

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Editorial Book Review:

By Pily Rivero

Thomas Jefferson~From Boy to Man by Jayne D’Alessandro-Cox provides a vivid and perceptive portrayal of one of America's most intricate founding figures during his early years. From the initial pages, the book captivates readers by examining Jefferson’s early experiences, aspirations, and the influences that molded his character and principles. Reading it evokes the sensation of entering the past, witnessing the youth who would evolve into a revolutionary thinker, and contemplating how environment, education, and family shaped his development.

The central themes of the book—personal development, inquiry, and the interplay between individual decisions and historical forces—extend beyond Jefferson himself, providing readers with an understanding of how formative experiences shape leadership and character. D’Alessandro-Cox utilizes a concise, accessible narrative style that harmonizes historical detail with narration, rendering the text suitable for both young readers and adults. Her adept integration of letters, anecdotes, and contextual details constructs a nuanced portrayal without inundating the reader, emphasizing Jefferson’s intellect, temperament, and moral conflicts.

Although the emphasis is on Jefferson’s early years, some readers may desire a more comprehensive examination of the wider historical background or the intricacies of his later life. Nonetheless, this limitation is minor, as the book’s purpose is plainly to highlight the transition from boy to man, rather than to offer a comprehensive biography.

Memorable highlights include anecdotes concerning Jefferson’s early education, his relationship with his father, and his interest in science and philosophy—moments that shed light on both his human qualities and the genesis of his revolutionary ideas. D’Alessandro-Cox’s ability to portray Jefferson’s developing character with both insight and clarity is especially noteworthy.

Ultimately, Thomas Jefferson~From Boy to Man is a captivating, informative, and inspiring publication. It provides an analysis of the formative years of a historical figure, demonstrating how early experiences shape distinguished individuals. Anyone with an interest in history, biography, or the development of leadership and character will find this book both informative and engaging. It constitutes a substantial contribution to historical scholarship, illuminating the progression of a figure who would leave a lasting influence on the world.

About the Author 

Jayne D'Alessandro-Cox

Jayne D'Alessandro-Cox hails from Long Island, New York. She was awarded a scholastic scholarship to Adelphi University in Garden City, L.I., and majored in Business Administration. She spent a semester in Seville, Spain, attending the University of Seville while minoring in Spanish. 

While in college, she was hired by the New York Jet's "Jet-Set Majorettes," and with her team, performed during pre-game and half-time at Shea Stadium during the Joe Namath era.

Upon graduation, she worked at the Manhattan headquarters for Northwest Orient Airlines.​ After marrying her husband, Dr. Douglas Cox, Ms. Cox moved to Charlottesville, and worked in the travel industry for 13 years.  She started her own event planning business, Jayne Arthur & Company, and for 6 years coordinated Travel Shows, Bridal Shows,  wedding ceremony and receptions, conferences and special events. 

Ms. Cox is a Body-for LIFE fitness grand-champion (2003), and is quoted extensively in Bill Phillips' book, Champions-for-LIFE.  She head-up her popular fitness class, the Bar-Belles, for 11 years. 

Presently, Ms. Cox is the President of the Glenmore Women's Luncheon and Speaker Series, which meets from October through May. You may use this website to reach her regarding "speaker" suggestions.