From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7-Cuff, a 15-year-old slave, worries about his family as he watches the British burn the town of Newport in 1778. His master, Isaac Barker, seems to support the British cause so the teen is confused and surprised when Barker's wife sends him off to join the Continental Army in the middle of the night. He joins the First Rhode Island Regiment, where he meets other African-American soldiers. Working as a messenger, he later learns that his master is actually a spy for the Continental Army. Most students will not have sufficient knowledge of the American Revolution to follow this plot. The awkward black-and-white line drawings are out of proportion and add little to the story. This title has limited regional appeal.
Gayle Modrall, Presbyterian School, Houston, TX
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Gayle Modrall, Presbyterian School, Houston, TX
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
