Revolutionary rogues : John Andre and Benedict Arnold Author: Castrovilla, Selene | ||
Price: $23.06 |
Summary:
Longing for reward and recognition, American Major General Benedict Arnold turns traitor as he plots with British Major Andre to help the British win the Revolutionary War.
Illustrator: | O'Brien, John |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (07/01/17)
School Library Journal (00/07/17)
Booklist (08/01/17)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 07/01/2017 Gr 3–6—In short, dramatic scenes, this title by the author of Revolutionary Friends: General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette presents the story of two notorious Revolutionary War soldiers. The straightforward narrative alternates between the viewpoints of British major John André and American major General Benedict Arnold, two men whose desire for power and recognition eclipsed their sense of honor and integrity. The book unfolds chronologically, moving from British headquarters in New York City to various outposts throughout upstate New York. Negotiations took some time, but eventually a deal was struck and the conspirators finally met. At each turn along the road to treason, Castrovilla shines a light on the motivations and conflicted emotions of André and Arnold. Although they dreamed of glory, the two Revolutionary rogues both came to a bitter end. The ink and watercolor illustrations set the scene in careful detail. The muted colors and interesting textures of the artwork call to mind old-fashioned woodblock prints. In two panels depicting Arnold's narrow escape, the American traitor dashes through the front door of his sumptuous home as his dismayed wife looks on, and then rides on horseback down a rocky hill to the river. A concluding author's note and a list of places to visit add historical interest. VERDICT Future historians will enjoy this psychological chronicle of how Arnold plotted with André to betray his fellow patriots.—Linda L. Walkins, Saint Joseph Preparatory High School, Boston - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Booklist - 08/01/2017 No name in the annals of U.S. history is more synonymous with treachery and betrayal than Benedict Arnold. Perhaps not so well known is the British major that was Arnold’s coconspirator, young and ambitious John André. The book is a study in contrast: André considers the benefit of his country, while Arnold acts only for the benefit of himself. In fact, Arnold’s motivations are examined with great detail, from his ardor for his pretty, young Loyalist wife, Peggy Shippen, to his ire over not being amply recognized for his acts of valor, to his want of money and a more opulent lifestyle. This in-depth look at Arnold’s personality, rooted heavily in primary source materials, creates a far more complex portrait than the one provided by most textbooks. The chronological telling of the men’s plot to take West Point provides countless opportunities for critical thinking and discussion. With colorful illustrations and insightful observations, books like this one make the names recorded in history much more human. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.