Status
Available
Call number
Publication
Square Fish (Roaring Brook Press)
Pages
337
Description
An introduction to the life of Benedict Arnold that highlights not only the traitorous actions that made him legendary, but also his heroic involvement in the American Revolution.
Description
Most people know that Benedict Arnold was America's first, most notorious traitor. Few know that he was also one of its greatest Revolutionary War heroes.
Steve Sheinkin's accessible biography, The Notorious Benedict Arnold, introduces young readers to the real Arnold: reckless, heroic, and driven. Packed with first-person accounts, astonishing American Revolution battle scenes, and surprising twists, this is a gripping and true adventure tale from history.
“Sheinkin sees Arnold as America's ‘original action hero' and succeeds in writing a brilliant, fast-paced biography that reads like an adventure novel...The author's obvious mastery of his material, lively prose and abundant use of eyewitness accounts make this one of the most exciting biographies young readers will find.” ―Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Several complex political, social, and military themes emerge, one of the most prominent being that within the Continental army, often simplistically depicted as single-minded patriots, beat hearts scheming with political machinations that are completely familiar today...Arnold's inexorable clash with Gates and his decision to turn traitor both chill and compel.” ―Horn Book Magazine (starred review)
Steve Sheinkin's accessible biography, The Notorious Benedict Arnold, introduces young readers to the real Arnold: reckless, heroic, and driven. Packed with first-person accounts, astonishing American Revolution battle scenes, and surprising twists, this is a gripping and true adventure tale from history.
“Sheinkin sees Arnold as America's ‘original action hero' and succeeds in writing a brilliant, fast-paced biography that reads like an adventure novel...The author's obvious mastery of his material, lively prose and abundant use of eyewitness accounts make this one of the most exciting biographies young readers will find.” ―Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Several complex political, social, and military themes emerge, one of the most prominent being that within the Continental army, often simplistically depicted as single-minded patriots, beat hearts scheming with political machinations that are completely familiar today...Arnold's inexorable clash with Gates and his decision to turn traitor both chill and compel.” ―Horn Book Magazine (starred review)
Collection
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2010
Physical description
337 p.; 7.6 inches
ISBN
1250024609 / 9781250024602
UPC
884923273969
Similar in this library
Lexile
990L
User reviews
LibraryThing member mhg123
This is a great book for boys. It has lots of adventure, Arnold himself was a wild, reckless and somewhat insane character.
LibraryThing member ChristianR
Great information about a well-known name in Revolutionary War history. Sheinkin shows how Benedict Arnold could have been a celebrated hero, but because of his impatience, temper, and expensive tastes ultimately became frustrated with the Americans and approached the British with an offer to give
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them details of West Point so they could attack it. It almost succeeded. Prior to this he had been a courageous and brilliant soldier and tactician who had won decisive battles for the Americans against huge odds. His background family story helped to form a whole picture of why he made the decisions that he did. Show Less
LibraryThing member lilibrarian
We all know that Benedict Arnold is a troitor, but most of us don't know anything about him or what actually happened. This book sets forth clearly the train of events that changed an American hero into a villain.
LibraryThing member HMP11
“That is how Benedict Arnold lived his life. There were long periods of hard work occasionally interrupted by explosions of temper.”
Known as America’s most infamous traitor, this biographical nonfiction young adult novel shares the other side of this of this once rising political patriot
Arnold possessed passionate political sentiment, but also a brash, bossy temperament that won him many enemies along with his conquests. His notorious downfall was caused by the steady build-up of years of hostile relationships, personal snubs and his pride. Until his death, he never saw his wrong doing and claimed, “I have ever acted from a principle of love to my country.”
Known as America’s most infamous traitor, this biographical nonfiction young adult novel shares the other side of this of this once rising political patriot
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through his heroic battles for a budding country, success as Commander of America’s first naval fleet and his grueling 600-mile reconnaissance mission up the formidable Kennebec River to Quebec. Arnold possessed passionate political sentiment, but also a brash, bossy temperament that won him many enemies along with his conquests. His notorious downfall was caused by the steady build-up of years of hostile relationships, personal snubs and his pride. Until his death, he never saw his wrong doing and claimed, “I have ever acted from a principle of love to my country.”
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LibraryThing member erinlmc
Good read about Benedict Arnold not only for the facts about his life, but told it like a story, with forshadowing and "zest" which made for easy reading. The cover of the book was what really attracted me to it in the first place. I am not a "war" story reader, but this one really held my interest
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more than some of the YA fiction I have been reading for the booktalks. Some of the writing was a little stilted, but not enough to dissuade me from reading it or recommending it. Show Less
LibraryThing member Marshahawkins
I had a tough time getting through my first 100 pages of this book because I tend to get a little lost in major “ battle” books (books that go into great depth describing a war battle). However, eventually, I understood why the author goes into such depth and the book ended up quite
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entertaining. The author lists good resources at the end and I am tempted to do more research. I think that’s the sign of a good story – one that inspires curiosity, which this book certainly did! Show Less
LibraryThing member KarenBall
"Riding in front of the line, his eyes flashing, pointing with his sword to the advancing for, with a voice that rang as clear as a trumpet and electrified the line, he called upon the men to follow him to the charge."
Benedict Arnold was one of George Washington's most charismatic and daring
Benedict Arnold was one of George Washington's most charismatic and daring
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generals, leading soldiers to do great things in desperate battles they shouldn't have won. Readers see how Arnold grew from an impulsive, reckless boy into a soldier and officer who led his men into the forefront of bloody battles, putting himself in the most danger at every turn. What led him to betray the new country he'd fought so hard to free from British rule? Sheinkin keeps the suspense building, adding the story of John Andre, Arnold's British contact into the mix, as well as the political maneuvering, newspaper stories and social pressures of the times. Although Arnold ended up broke and disgraced in London, his story is one of "what if?" There are many points in his life when one decision or another could have turned him onto a completely different path... and could have changed American history. Sheinkin includes an extensive list of sources (lots of primary sources), and detailed notes on the quotes he uses throughout the book. This is the best researched and most engaging biography I've seen in a long time! Especially appropriate for 8th grade because of social studies connections. Show Less
LibraryThing member Sullywriter
Benedict Arnold is a fascinating character and Sheinkin brings him vividly to life in this lively, informative and quite engaging portrait. This is a biography written specifically for a teenage audience but any adult reader who enjoys a gripping, good story with a compelling character will enjoy
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it, too. I certainly did! Show Less
LibraryThing member fromthecomfychair
OK, call me a history buff, but Ioved this true story, nonfiction told in such an engaging way. It read like great historical fiction. Sheinkin does not seem to judge his character, but lays him bare, warts and all. Of course warts are what we remember when Arnold's name is mentioned. Before
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reading this book, I didn't know he had also been a Revolutionary War hero, and that he actually died in England, not at the end of a rope in America. If this were read in a U. S. History class, it would be a winner, especially with guys. I want to read more by this author. Show Less
LibraryThing member Erin_Boyington
3Q 3P (my VOYA codes), 3Q 3P (actual VOYA codes). I can't say enough good things about this book, and I think that its appeal for teens is higher than most nonfiction histories. It's a fascinating story about a complex character in American history, and how he fell from grace. Sheinkin narrates
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Arnold's exciting life as an adventure, and draws from actual letters and diaries without bogging down the narrative. It made me want to run out and pick up books on the American Revolution. Show Less
LibraryThing member rocounsil
5P, 4Q
This is a fast paced and well written account of the life and times of one of our history's national misfits. In writing The Notorious Benedict Arnold, Steve Sheiken used scores of letters to and from his lead character as well as other primary sources to fashion a adventurous story perhaps
The idea of a Traitor is at once captivating and confounding. Part of what makes Sheiken's portrayal of Benedict Arnold so interesting is that most people likely know little about him besides the fact that he switched sides during the Revolutionary War. That may have damaged his popularity at the time, but for contemporary readers, this fun and accessible biography explores Benedict Arnold's early life, his character, his contributions to the Revolutionary Army. Ultimately it plays with our sympathies as we are torn between allegiances learned in early history education and new found sympathy for a complicated historical figure. If presented with enthusiasm, The Notorious Benedict Arnold will be popular with anyone attracted more to the misfits of history than our typical heroes.
This is a fast paced and well written account of the life and times of one of our history's national misfits. In writing The Notorious Benedict Arnold, Steve Sheiken used scores of letters to and from his lead character as well as other primary sources to fashion a adventurous story perhaps
Show More
unusual to the biographical form. Young adults who think they dislike history may change their mind after reading this well written work. The idea of a Traitor is at once captivating and confounding. Part of what makes Sheiken's portrayal of Benedict Arnold so interesting is that most people likely know little about him besides the fact that he switched sides during the Revolutionary War. That may have damaged his popularity at the time, but for contemporary readers, this fun and accessible biography explores Benedict Arnold's early life, his character, his contributions to the Revolutionary Army. Ultimately it plays with our sympathies as we are torn between allegiances learned in early history education and new found sympathy for a complicated historical figure. If presented with enthusiasm, The Notorious Benedict Arnold will be popular with anyone attracted more to the misfits of history than our typical heroes.
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LibraryThing member MichaelGlenn
The book was very interesting, telling the story of Arnold with a very knowledgeable, informed author. When I bought this I did not realize that it was intended for younger readers, but could tell from the writing style. It still was enjoyable a read.
LibraryThing member 2wonderY
This is remarkable job of bringing Benedict Arnold to full life. He was a passionate character, which was his strength and ultimate flaw. I'm surprised at how little I knew of his story prior to this book, and glad to know more now. How tragic that he soured to the revolution after being such a
Well done.
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significant hero. Fault is with him, but also his associates.Well done.
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LibraryThing member BrynDahlquis
Normally I'm not a big history buff, but the story of Benedict Arnold intrigued me when I first heard about it, so I decided to read up on it. I'm really glad I did, too, because this book is excellent. It reads more like a story than a historical biography, and yet gets all the important facts in.
Steven Sheinkin also gets points for an amazing ending (I'm a sucker for those).
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Not only do I now know a whole lot about Benedict Arnold, but I also want to know even -more-, especially about John André and the other characters in Arnold's story.Steven Sheinkin also gets points for an amazing ending (I'm a sucker for those).
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LibraryThing member pussreboots
The Notorious Benedict Arnold by Steve Sheinkin was shortlisted for a middle grade / young adult nonfiction CYBILs. It is part biography and part chronicle of the events that may have contributed to him eventually spying for the British.
The first chapter was a rip snorter — beginning with
Later on the book includes lengthy descriptions of Benedict's command during the invasion of Canada as part of the Revolutionary War. Even being familiar with the dates and the areas of the battles, I found myself wanting maps and a timeline so I could see how one event related to another event. I suppose maps were kept out of the book since the narrative flows more like a novel than a history text. But without them I just can't recommend the book as a stand alone volume.
The book is best suited for older readers who are versed in the basics of the Revolutionary War and Benedict Arnold's participation in it. It works as a supplementary text but only as one.
The first chapter was a rip snorter — beginning with
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Arnold's execution. What the book, though, assumes of the reader, is full knowledge of what his treasonous acts were. Now if there were written for adults — I would have no problem with that conceit. But this book is written for readers who are still completing their education and depending on their age — might not have reached the Revolutionary War in great detail.Later on the book includes lengthy descriptions of Benedict's command during the invasion of Canada as part of the Revolutionary War. Even being familiar with the dates and the areas of the battles, I found myself wanting maps and a timeline so I could see how one event related to another event. I suppose maps were kept out of the book since the narrative flows more like a novel than a history text. But without them I just can't recommend the book as a stand alone volume.
The book is best suited for older readers who are versed in the basics of the Revolutionary War and Benedict Arnold's participation in it. It works as a supplementary text but only as one.
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LibraryThing member sbballard
This book is a gem. I did not expect to like it and was not drawn in by the cover. However, Sheinkin does a beautiful job drawing the reader into to the personal stories of the characters in this eventful period in American history. Starting with Benedict Arnolds' birth and family life, you get a
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real sense of his personality and his need for glory as he gets involved with the American war effort. He shows amazing courage and charisma as a leader and in battle and then whines when he doesn't get as much recognition as he deserves. The book is filled with descriptions of the hardships of war (on both sides) and the uncertainty of the outcome. What a great way to learn! I would recommend this book to any teen who likes a good story with some action. Show Less
LibraryThing member NigeltheKid
5Q 4P
The Notorious Benedict Arnold is part biography, part history, and part creative nonfiction (that is, nonfiction written using elements of fiction). It chronicles the life of Benedict Arnold and his involvement in the American War of Independence, all leading up to his famous treason against
I enjoyed this book tremendously: it was readable, the author explained any possible esoteric section, and it's the first portrayal of Benedict Arnold as a human being with both vices and virtues. The author Steve Sheinkin keeps the reader engaged by writing the biography in a narrative form. Sheinkin goes beyond telling the story of Arnold's betrayal and gives the historical context of both the war and Arnold, allowing the reader to have a greater understanding of the traitorous general.
The lengthy bibliography/recommended reading list at the end is a testament to Sheinkin's research, and is sufficient enough for anyone who would want to know more about Benedict Arnold. It gives the reader comfort to know that the author himself is a lifelong fan of the Revolutionary War, since it makes poor research or omitted sources unlikely.
What especially sets this book apart are the relationships between important characters. The development of George Washington's friendship with Benedict Arnold was so believable that the reader could sympathize when Washington discovered Arnold's treason. It helped that not a single character was stereotyped or clichéd.
In every respect, this book earned the YALSA award it received.
The Notorious Benedict Arnold is part biography, part history, and part creative nonfiction (that is, nonfiction written using elements of fiction). It chronicles the life of Benedict Arnold and his involvement in the American War of Independence, all leading up to his famous treason against
Show More
his country. Steve Sheinkin based the narrative form of the book off firsthand accounts and testimonies by eyewitnesses.I enjoyed this book tremendously: it was readable, the author explained any possible esoteric section, and it's the first portrayal of Benedict Arnold as a human being with both vices and virtues. The author Steve Sheinkin keeps the reader engaged by writing the biography in a narrative form. Sheinkin goes beyond telling the story of Arnold's betrayal and gives the historical context of both the war and Arnold, allowing the reader to have a greater understanding of the traitorous general.
The lengthy bibliography/recommended reading list at the end is a testament to Sheinkin's research, and is sufficient enough for anyone who would want to know more about Benedict Arnold. It gives the reader comfort to know that the author himself is a lifelong fan of the Revolutionary War, since it makes poor research or omitted sources unlikely.
What especially sets this book apart are the relationships between important characters. The development of George Washington's friendship with Benedict Arnold was so believable that the reader could sympathize when Washington discovered Arnold's treason. It helped that not a single character was stereotyped or clichéd.
In every respect, this book earned the YALSA award it received.
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LibraryThing member KendallCH
The Notorious Benedict Arnold is a biography of a man that started as patriot and ended as a traitor. This true story details Arnold's entire life, birth to death, but focuses on his rise to General and subsequent demotion leading to his infamous betrayals during the Revolutionary War. Arnold likes
I liked that this was a true story and that the author put in real quotes. It was also cool that this biography encompassed his whole life because it really showed that people aren't good or bad. There is lots of in between. By describing his motivation for becoming a traitor, they showed that often things are not black and white, they are grey. The reader could understand why he did what he did.
My favorite part was when Arnold blocked the British army with only six ships!
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money, fame, and power. He wants to be important and become a General. Congress does not like him, they want him to be a soldier but George Washington thinks he should be a general. In the end, Arnold is demoted which makes him mad. This is the turning point for Arnold. He goes to the British and asks for a job as a General. They agree but also want him to spy for them. He does and gives them information on Fort George and then Fort Arnold (named after him!)so that the British can capture them. He has lots of secret meetings with Andre and writes secret papers to Andre. He hides them in Andre's stocking but when Andre gets caught, Arnold is discovered as a traitor. Andre gets hanged but Arnold goes to England. After spending some time there with his friend the king, he eventually is captured and hung.I liked that this was a true story and that the author put in real quotes. It was also cool that this biography encompassed his whole life because it really showed that people aren't good or bad. There is lots of in between. By describing his motivation for becoming a traitor, they showed that often things are not black and white, they are grey. The reader could understand why he did what he did.
My favorite part was when Arnold blocked the British army with only six ships!
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LibraryThing member engpunk77
Listened to the audiobook only because it's exactly 7 hours as was my usually interminable drive to PA. Surprisingly, it totally drew me in. I knew that Benedict Arnold was a traitor during the war, but that was it. Regaled with adventurous narratives, I learned exciting things about this
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fascinating man. I recommend this to any history lovers grade 6 to adult. Readers should definitely have background knowledge of the Revolutionary War, as the author expects it, and if you're a young reader, you should definitely have a decent vocabulary and familiarity with war jargon. Excellent read! Show Less
LibraryThing member JenW1
Intriguing and entertaining.
LibraryThing member JadeI.B2
This book is about the life of Benedict Arnold and the role he played in the American revolution. It paints a wonderful picture of how he was at one point a crazy yet great leader during the revaluation, but Benedict would soon come to betray our country for money. It was then that he was no longer
This book got 3 stars because it was a good well written but it was not over the moon amazing. It gave a greatly detailed description of an American hero turned traitor. In conclusion, this book was very informative, but not extremely interesting.
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a hero to our county but a traitor. In his final years, he lived in London and ended up dying a painful death. This book got 3 stars because it was a good well written but it was not over the moon amazing. It gave a greatly detailed description of an American hero turned traitor. In conclusion, this book was very informative, but not extremely interesting.
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LibraryThing member addunn3
Interesting read. Gives a much different - more complex- understanding of the man.
LibraryThing member SamMusher
It's clearly a very good book, the story just isn't asking questions that grabbed me personally.
LibraryThing member la2bkk
This relatively brief work tells the life of Benedict Arnold in a concise yet wonderfully engaging narrative that flows like a story as opposed to non-fiction. Unlike some biographies that become mired in excessive detail, just enough information was imparted to depict the fascinating account of
An excellent read and highly recommended.
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this most complicated patriot and ultimate traitor. The work made clear that Benedict Arnold was a complicated figure, and I particularly enjoyed the account of major John Andre. In most biographies Andre is glorified as an officer and gentleman of redeeming qualities, while this work made clear that in many ways he was a privileged officer whose circumstances did more for his reputation than his actual accomplishments.An excellent read and highly recommended.
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LibraryThing member sloth852
I love that Sheinkin keeps an accessible tone for younger readers without talking down to them - I appreciate his respect for his readers. I really didn't know much about Benedict Arnold before reading this book, and I now have a much more complete picture of both his positive contributions (and
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there were many) and why he eventually betrayed Washington. I like that Sheinkin strives to humanize him while still holding him accountable for his wrongs. Show Less
Awards
Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (Winner — Nonfiction — 2011)
Cardinal Cup (Honor — 2011)
Margaret A. Edwards Award (2020)
YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction (Nominee — 2012)
Call number
SOC H.600