Lafayette and the American Revolution

Freedman, Russell. 2010. LAFAYETTE AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 978-0823421824 [Suggested Grade Levels 6-12]

REVIEW
Freedman’s consistently rigorous approach provides an excellent introduction to a pivotal figure in the early history of the U.S, the Marquis de Lafayette, from France. Young readers will be fascinated by the charismatic figure who was himself a teenager when he first came to America and whose relationship with George Washington became a pivotal component in both their lives, as well as in the history and evolution of both their countries, the U.S. and France.

Freedman’s writing is accessible and information-rich and the book’s design is compelling and browse-worthy. Every two-page spread contains interesting visuals, including at least one painting, drawing, or photograph, usually in color. In addition, a time line, source notes, and a selected bibliography of sources are included in the book’s backmatter.

CONNECTIONS
Invite kids to locate the various places referenced in the book on a world map, including battle sites.
Research portraits of Lafayette (and Washington and other figures in the book) and paintings of the era through electronic and print resources.

RELATED BOOKS
Other books by Russell Freedman about people in American history:
WASHINGTON AT VALLEY FORGE. ISBN 9780823420698
THE VOICE THAT CHALLENGED A NATION; MARIAN ANDERSON AND THE STRUGGLE FOR EQUAL RIGHTS. ISBN 9780547480343
THE LIFE AND DEATH OF CRAZY HORSE. ISBN 9780823412198
FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT. ISBN 9780395629789
LINCOLN; A PHOTOBIOGRAPHY. ISBN 9780395518489
ELEANOR ROOSEVELT; A LIFE OF DISCOVERY. ISBN 9780395845202

By Sylvia M. Vardell