Heather Richardson Books

A provocative and propulsive look at American history, and the myth that the Civil War's new birth of freedom ended oligarchy. It just moved westward.

Heather Richardson's astonishing fragmentary celebration of her aunt, Kathleen Hutchinson, whose life was cut tragically short aged just 14. A Dress For Kathleen is a labour of love from niece to the aunt she never met. Every sentence sparkles.

New York Times Bestseller. “Engaging and highly accessible.” —Boston Globe. “A vibrant, and essential history of America's unending struggle to live up to its best ideals… It's both a cause for hope and a call to arms.”--Jane Mayer, author of Dark Money. From the historian and author of the popular newsletter LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN comes a vital narrative explaining how America, once a beacon of democracy, now teeters on the brink of autocracy—and how we can reclaim it. Amid the 2019 impeachment crisis, Heather Cox Richardson launched a daily Facebook essay providing historical context for the news, which evolved into a newsletter with over 2 million readers who appreciate her informed perspective on America’s past and present. In this compelling narrative, Richardson illustrates how a small group of wealthy individuals has undermined American ideals through weaponized language and false history, leading us toward authoritarianism. She emphasizes that reclaiming our country starts with remembering the true history upheld by marginalized Americans, whose dedication to foundational principles has allowed for the renewal of democratic commitments. Richardson skillfully distills complex news into a coherent story, highlighting key precedents and potential paths forward. Her calm prose balances realism and optimism about democracy's future, seamlessly connecting historical figures and events—from the Founders to contemporary