We have begun our Literature Circles in Language Arts class. Soon we will begin reading historical novels linked to Colonial America and the American Revolution. The following novels are possible choices for this assignment:
1. Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes -- “This story of a tragically injured young silversmith who ends up hip-deep in the American Revolution is inspiring, exciting, and sad. Winner of the prestigious Newbery Award.” -- Editorial Review.
2. My Brother Sam is Dead by James Lincoln Collier -- “Young Tim is caught between his brother’s patriotism and his father’s Tory sympathies, in this classic story of the American Revolution. This stirring and authoritative novel earns a place beside our best historical fiction.” --The Horn Book (Strong language and graphic war descriptions).
3. The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare -- “A high-spirited teenage girl rebels against the narrow-minded ways of Puritan Connecticut and befriends a lonely old woman who is subsequently accused of being a witch. Strong plot, fully realized characters, and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative.” --Booklist.
4. The Fighting Ground by Avi -- “At thirteen, Jonathan dreams of fighting in the American Revolution. Almost by accident, he is recruited into a fighting unit and experiences the reality of war, including being taken prisoner and coming to grips with his feelings about shooting to kill.” -- School Library Journal (Decoding level appropriate for developing readers).
5. The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare -- “Until the day his father returns to their cabin in the Maine wilderness, 12-year-old Matt must try to survive on his own. During an attack by swarming bees, Matt is astonished when he’s rescued by an Indian chief and his grandson, Attean. As the boys come to know each other, many months pass without a sign of Matt’s family. Then Attean asks Matt to join the Beaver tribe.” -- Editorial Review.
6. Sarah Bishop by Scott O’Dell -- “The tale of a girl’s strength and courage during the American Revolution, written by the Newbery Medal-winning author of Island of the Blue Dolphins. Readers will especially relish Sarah’s fierce independence.” -- School Library Journal.
