The American Revolution (Storyteller's History) [Paperback]

Steve Sheinkin (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 15, 2005 | Age Level: 9 and up | Series: Storyteller's History

Packed with true stories and real quotes you'll never find in textbooks, this is the amazing, surprising, funny, and never-boring adventure of the American Revolution. This exciting new book includes dozens of original cartoons in which famous and not-so-famous characters deliver their quotes right to the reader.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 4-8–Sheinkin utilizes direct quotations and a lighthearted touch to bring our nation's history alive. The quotes, often displayed in cartoon word balloons, are woven neatly into a well-organized narrative. They range from the lofty phrases of Jefferson to such down-to-earth moments as Benjamin Franklin scolding roommate John Adams not to shut the window at night. Along with famous figures, readers hear from soldiers, farmers, and other lesser-known folk, though in most cases no sources are given. There's an irreverent tone to the text that makes all of these figures seem more human, though no less worthy of respect. John Adams, for instance, is described as a well-known lawyer, Patriot, and grump. Major events are explained clearly, with well-chosen facts that draw readers' attention. A lively chapter on Paul Revere's ride, for instance, jumps deftly from Revere to the British and back while sprinkling quotes from at least nine different individuals. Add a few intriguing details, such as the petticoat that Revere borrowed to muffle the sound of oars, and the episode really comes to life. Wry chapter titles and cartoon figure sketches match the light tone of the text. Despite the levity, the magnitude of the Revolution comes through, and difficult questions are raised, such as the fact that many patriot leaders were also slave owners. Overall, this is a fine example of injecting humor into history, with strong appeal as an assignment resource or just a fun read.–Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, OR
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Review

“Terrific. The stories are just what one dreams of in a history book. And the humor!” --Carol Berkin, Professor of History at City University of New York

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9 and up
  
• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Summer Street Press; 1 edition (September 15, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0976636700
• ISBN-13: 978-0976636700
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6.8 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #432,423 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Bought it for nephew but kept it (for now) for myself!, March 24, 2006

By 

Paul (Boston, MA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The American Revolution (Storyteller's History) (Paperback)

I originally got this book with my nephew in mind, but I started to read it and then decided he could wait. I know a fair amount about the Revolution, but there were stories in the book I hadn't encountered before. Sheinkin neatly juggles micro and macro perspectives, human interest anecdotes and the sweep of historical events. He uses the telling phrase to fix a character in our minds. The book has a strong narrative drive-scenes often start in the middle of the action-a fun but not flippant tone, and a wealth of well-chosen but accessible primary source quotes. The combination should be irresistible for kids. It was for me.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A real page turner!, November 17, 2006

By 

J. Rudolph (Connecticut) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: The American Revolution (Storyteller's History) (Paperback)

This book is perfect for getting kids excited about history. And it's great for adults, too. Sheinkin writes in a conversational style that that pulls you in to the story. I learned a lot of things that I didn't know about the Revolutionary War---like that the British thought Ben Franklin was working on a secret electrical machine that would destroy Britain! The illustrations really add to the charm of the book as well. The picture of John Adams in pajamas---loved it!

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Brings History to Life, March 24, 2007

By 

D. Dahms (Denver, CO USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: The American Revolution (Storyteller's History) (Paperback)

This book is a wonderful way to introduce kids to the story of the American Revolution! It is written in a lively way with just enough funny side stories. My 10-year-old loved this book and even I learned some things from it.