Castrovilla, Selene. Revolutionary Rogues: John André and Benedict Arnold. Illus. by John O’Brien. Calkins Creek, 2017. $17.95. unp. ISBN 978-1-62979-341-2. Ages 7-10. P7Q7
Benedict Arnold is a familiar term used for traitor, but André is much lesser known. Together, however, the two of them—one a British spy and the other an American hero—almost stopped George Washington which would have changed the course of history. Their failure led both of them into ruin and Washington to victory at West Point and the leader of the new United States of America. Arnold is an example of how a person who feels denied of recognition can turn on his country to find fame in another way.
Verdict: Most children’s books about the Revolutionary War are about heroes who won America from the British; this one gives a perspective of those on the other side. Fine-lined pen and ink covered with watercolors are striking for scenes, but the humans have a wooden feel that distracts from the illustrations. Yet the comparison of the two men in their personal drives and professional careers is well delineated with elements of drama in their adventures. Included are an afterword, timelines, an extensive bibliography and key places to visit. A companion to Castrovilla’s Revolutionary Friends about George Washington and Lafayette.
December 2017 review by Nel Ward.
Advertisements Share this:
