A Staggering Look at the Revolution

The story of the American Revolution as told by Tim Meeker, a young adolescent living in the Tory community of Redding, Connecticut. His brother Sam is a Yale student infatuated with the idea of rebellion, whether from family or England, and joins the Continental Army under Benedict Arnold, much to his (Sam's) father's displeasure.

The novel does a remarkable job of detailing the daily difficulties of living in a war-torn land, and one in which news comes slowly, if at all. Rising prices, payment in nearly worthless script, and the vengeful (and arbitrary) nature of military punishment come to life in this starkly told tale.

A good read for anyone fifth grade and up--boys in particular may appreciate the masculine nature of this story. There are some harsh details, so be prepared for some questions if you're a parent.

For those that enjoyed Johnny Tremain.