Genre: Biography (life history of Benedict Arnold)
Subject: Young Adult non-fiction - General Benedict Arnold, U.S. Revolution, American loyalists, Continental Army
Audience: Ages 12 & up
Benedict Arnold is known as a traitor, but most people know little else about the man and his accomplishments. This biography follows Arnold's life as a mischievous and active youth until his death in 1801. Arnold was instrumental in winning battles of the American Revolution and appointed a general by George Washington but he never received the credit that he deserved due to his unpredictable recklessness and driven nature. The author describes the military decisions that he made in each of the skirmishes in which he was involved. It details his invasion of Canada, how he created the first American Naval Fleet, and his actions in the Battle of Valcour Island and the Battle of Saratoga. Readers come to understand why Arnold did not get along with his peers and eventually why he betrayed the colonies by plotting with British officer Major Andre to give West Point to the British. To draw readers in, Sheinkin begins the story with the execution of Major Andre and then flashes back to Arnold's childhood and tells the story in sequential order. It reads like a novel, using first hand accounts and quotes from the various sources that are included in the source notes at the back of the book.
Awards:
YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction (2012)
Beacon of Freedom Award (2013)
Teaching Resources:
Steve Sheinkin: "The Notorious Benedict Arnold"
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