This is a most thorough book for young readers of approximately middle school age. Dense text is peppered with dozens of period illustrations and prints that move the reader through its 90 beautifully laid out pages. A wonderful book that will satisfy young history buffs, both with its rich content and thoughtful visual design.
Heidi P. (JaxMommy) reviewed Give Me Libert!y: The Story of the Declaration of Independence on + 7 more book reviews
This is an odd book. The American author is sympathetic to the British. He describes them as being "frightened soldiers" attacked at the Boston Massacre. Thomas Paine and Patrick Henry are both characterized as propagandists. At one point "the Americans were bent on revenge." The British are "hounded redcoats. . .saved from disaster" in Concord. Most of our American patriots are described simply as rebels. As an avid student of American history these descriptions annoy me. More because they may be overlooked for what they are. It is a new way to rewrite our history. Subtly make the American patriot look like the bad guy. Especially in the current climate of the Tea Party and frustration with Washington we can not allow these subtleties to sneak in to our kids history books.
