Bound To Stay Bound

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School Library Journal - 03/01/2017 Gr 2–5—Acclaimed historian Philbrick (Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War) has penned a Revolution-era history for kids adapted from his adult title Bunker Hill. This historical narrative follows Benjamin Russell, an adolescent in Boston at the dawn of the Revolution. Readers learn about the Boston Tea Party, Isaiah Thomas's radical publications, and the eruption of armed resistance to the British. Philbrick adds nuance to the tale through, for instance, Ben's mixed sentiments about the excitement of revolution and the kindness shown to him by a local British officer. From across the harbor, Ben watches the climactic battle of Bunker Hill, where the outmatched, outnumbered Patriots hold off multiple waves of British attacks before finally withdrawing. Ben is reunited with his family after the battle, and he soon joins Isaiah Thomas as a printer's apprentice. The full-color illustrations are full of bright hues, resulting in pleasing grassy fields, morning light flashing off harbor waters, and brilliantly clad Redcoats. Minor depicts the battlefield with motion and smoky haze, yet free of carnage. A convenient map displays the Boston locales referenced. Educators should note that invented dialogue has been added by the author to move the narrative along. VERDICT A stirring account of the American Revolution, sure to resonate with elementary students.—Jeffrey Meyer, Mount Pleasant Public Library, IA - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 03/15/2017 Based on events in the author’s adult history Bunker Hill (2013), this illustrated chapter book focuses on the true story of Benjamin Russell, a 13-year-old Bostonian boy who enjoyed helping his father’s friend, the printer Isaiah Thomas. Ben was an early witness to the American Revolution, including the Boston Tea Party, and even admonished a British officer for ruining his friends’ icy sledding run down Beacon Hill. Naturally, when war broke out, he and his curious friends followed General Percy’s brigade across the bridge to Cambridge. They soon realized that the British had sealed off Boston, leaving them stranded and away from family. Philbrick’s episodic narration and Minor’s realistic, engaging paintings combine to depict Ben’s experiences as a clerk for militiaman Israel Putnam and his assistance in the Battle of Bunker Hill. The book concludes with Ben’s “honorable discharge,” his reunion with family, an apprenticeship with Isaiah Thomas, and a presentation of the Declaration of Independence. Younger advanced readers and budding history buffs will enjoy this account of Benjamin Russell’s youthful exploits. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.

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