Recently I found out that he--with his father, Robert A. Skead--has written a couple of new books, which are historical fiction for kids. The books are set during the American Revolution, on the East Coast. I had the opportunity to read and review them, at no cost to me.


I thoroughly enjoyed both of these books! A few highlights for me:
- The plots are fast-paced, perfect for kids who like action.
- The stories are based on fact, but obviously include some creative elements. I love that the author includes an appendix that separates the facts from the creative changes.
- Other appendices offer discussion questions, short biographies of several historical figures who appear in the book, a glossary, and the text of the historical letters described.
- The writing style isn't simplified: the authors use strong verbs and well-chosen descriptive words. Every so often you'll encounter a higher-level word for which a younger child might need a definition. (My personal belief is that this is one way that reading helps kids increase vocabulary. Here it's present but not so concentrated that it's a distraction.)
- Both books are free of anything offensive, unless you place occasional references to Providence and God in that category or if, you know, you would have sided with the Brits during the war.
For more information on author Robert Skead, click on his name to go to his website. For more information on the books, and to read samples, click on the titles above or the images below.
Disclosure: All Amazon links in this post are affiliate links. If you click through and complete a purchase, I will receive a small commission. Thank you!
Ha. Broxton would probably like these... We went to a book sale (for the library) and he decided he wanted "ALL THE HISTORY BOOKS" that they had. Needless to say, we ended up with an assortment of books, but for only $13, I could not complain.
ReplyDeleteLove this book:)
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