"An excellent teaching tool. I love your book!"

— Margaret Sachs, Teacher, Chapel Hill, NC

"As a homeschool Mom, I appreciate any kind of book that can make history more exciting—it's not my favorite subject. But you were able to fill this book with humor and interesting facts that made my sons and I want to read it every day! Thank you again for making history fun!"

— Lisa Langley

"Standard textbooks outline the American Revolution. Sheinkin adds the actors and the theater. Heroes and traitors, triumphs and disasters, comedy and tragedy, Sheinkin presents history as a series of hearthside tales, covering the war from Lexington and Concord to Yorktown. He includes an illuminating and entertaining section on causes and an epilogue that reveals the fates of the main characters."

— PBS Teacher Source, "Recommended Books"

"Terrific. The use of primary sources is fabulous. 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, and author of
     Making America: A History of the United States

"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."

— School Library Journal

"I liked that it wasn't all facts and boring dates."

— Middle school student in Salt Lake City, UT

Add Your Review