Yes, it’s a Newberry award winner. But it’s a good one.
This thrilling Newbery Medal-winning novel about the Revolutionary War is a classic of children’s historical fiction.
Fourteen-year-old Johnny Tremain, an apprentice silversmith with a bright future ahead of him, injures his hand in a tragic accident, forcing him to look for other work. In his new job as a horse-boy, riding for the patriotic newspaper The Boston Observer and as a messenger for the Sons of Liberty, he encounters John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and Dr. Joseph Warren.
Soon Johnny is involved in the pivotal events of the American Revolution, from the Boston Tea Party to the first shots fired at Lexington. Powerful illustrations by artist Michael McCurdy help bring this classic novel for middle graders to life.
“This sweeping tale of redcoats and revolutionaries has a lot to offer. Forbes, a historian, writes with detail and precision, imbuing historical events with life and passion that is often lacking in textbooks.” (Common Sense Media)
Amazon Blurb
This was a Newberry, shockingly enough, with Christian and patriotic themes, primarily those of getting up, working hard, and overcoming, instead of wallowing in self-pity. Work ethic is seriously lacking in today’s culture, and it’s not helped by the fact that our entertainment promotes spoiled, entitled children instead of dilligent, hard workers who care about what they do.
As well, Johnny Tremain has a deep and moving symbol of sacrifice, tells the story of the early days of the Revolution, promotes patriotism, and immerses the reader in the time period. This is a perfect read for middle-grade and is clean and nonviolent. Despite the things going on historically, Forbes avoids gore, and the worst thing that happens is Johnny’s friend getting struck by a redcoat. Deaths are implied, but nothing is shown.
Unlike much of today’s work, Johnny Tremain represents history accurately and portrays a flawed young hero learning and maturing. I read this book as a tween and greatly enjoyed it, and I would highly recommend it for other tweens as well.
What are your thoughts, folks? Anyone read this book, or any other good patriotic tales? Add a comment.
Bye, friends. Have a lovely week!
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