I tend to be one of those people who often question when something is getting a lot of hype. Is it really as good as everyone says? The Broadway musical Hamilton was no exception for me. A few years ago I saw that the soundtrack was available through hoopla for free (sadly it doesn’t seem to be anymore), so I decided to see what all the hype was about. I have to say, I was blown away! I’ve been a HUGE fan of the show ever since.
I’ve been anxiously awaiting the release of the recording of the original Broadway cast of Hamilton, and I’m so excited it’s being released today on Disney+! The mix of American history with modern music, and references to issues such as immigration and racial equality are wonderfully done and make for a memorable show. I highly recommend listening to the soundtrack if you haven’t already. If you’re already a fan, like me, I’ve put together a list of nonfiction books, fiction books, and musical soundtracks that you may enjoy.
Nonfiction Books
Alexander Hamilton
by Ron Chernow
This is the book that inspired Lin-Manuel Miranda to write the musical, and definitely the one most recommended for fans of the show.
Washington’s Immortals
by Patrick K. O’Donnell
The little-known story of the Washington-led “Immortal 400” who found in several battles during the Revolutionary War.
Louisa: The Extraordinary Life of Mrs. Adams
by Louisa Thomas
A biography of Louisa Catherine Adams, the wife of John Quincy Adams.
Lafayette in the Somewhat United States
by Sarah Vowell
A humorous and insightful account of the Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette.
Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation
by Joseph Ellis
A look at the intertwined lives of the founding fathers – John Adams, Aaron Burr, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and George Washington.
Hamilton: The Revolution
by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeremy McCarter
A look into the creation of the musical, including emails, photographs, and notebook entries.
Fiction Books
America’ First Daughter
by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie
A historical novel about Thomas Jefferson’s oldest daughter inspired by original letters.
The Hamilton Affair
by Elizabeth Cobbs
A fictional account of the love story of Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler.
Alex & Eliza
by Melissa de la Cruz
Young adult novel following the tale of Hamilton and Eliza.
The Traitor’s Wife
by Allison Pataki
An historical novel about Peggy Shippen Arnold, wife of treasonous Benedict Arnold.
New York
by Edward Rutherfurd
Spanning centuries, this novel explores the history of the city of New York.
Musical Soundtracks
In the HeightsLin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway debut.
Jesus Christ SuperstarA cultural icon of a show that has a controversial history while delivering some solid rock numbers. Both Hamilton and Jesus Christ Superstar are narrated by the sympathetic antagonist.
Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812
While not rap, this show uses modern music to tell a historical tale, much like Hamilton.
Dear Evan HansenLike Hamilton, this show tells the story of an underdog who rises in success and fame only to make a big mistake.
The Last Five YearsLin-Manuel Miranda actually directly quotes this show including the line “nobody needs to know.” Both shows have a theme of infidelity.
Plus, if you haven’t already watched the documentary on the making of Hamilton, be sure to check out Hamilton, One Show to Broadway, which is available on hoopla.
