The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery

Gr 7 Up—From childhood stunts to a tragic end, Steve Sheinkin's expertly researched narrative brings to life the true story (Flash Point, 2010) of Benedict Arnold's heroism, as well as his betrayal. The man presented here is a vibrant, three-dimensional individual full of courage, recklessness, and pride. Beginning with Arnold's tragic upbringing in Connecticut, shadowed by poverty and death, the journey continues to the siege of Quebec and the Battle of Saratoga, ending with disaster at West Point. Along the way, Sheinkin exposes the truth about Arnold, good and bad, and paints a portrait of someone who was more than just a general-cum-traitor. Adding to an already intriguing story, Mark Bramhall's reading greatly enhances the text. His handling of the numerous 18th-century primary source accounts by people who knew, loved, and hated Arnold allows the audience to become immersed in the world of revolutionary America. Listeners will be left with a greater understanding of, and even sympathy for, a very complicated man. An excellent non-fiction audio production for social studies classes.–Michaela Schied, Indian River Middle School, Philadelphia, NY