If the Fourth of July celebrations didn't stir enough patriotism in each of us, Jeff Shaara's new American history chronicle brings alive the years leading up to the Revolution.
Rise to Rebellion vividly portrays the years between the Boston Massacre and the signing of the Declaration of Independence (1770 to 1776 for you history buffs), and examines momentous events such as the Boston Tea Party, Battle of Lexington and Concord, and formation of the Continental Congress in between.
Instead of reciting historical events as a lecturer, Shaara revives each occasion through the eyes of those who witnessed the events. His cast of characters includes future presidents George Washington and John Adams, Ben Franklin (who?), British General Gage, and brew master extraordinaire Sam Adams.
It is through these characters Shaara avoids the almost inevitable: that a book based on history will read like the 11th grade American History book. Rise to Rebellion comes to life as the strengths and weaknesses of each American idol are revealed. While our own Ben Franklin is perceived as a great American patriot, Shaara's tale portrays a much different fact: that Ben Franklin was a staunch loyalist through much of the early 1770s, until eventually the political climate and continuing disrespect for colonists forced his return.
While the everyday history major may bore of the relentless historical narrative, Rise to Rebellion's ability to bring personality and depth to our beloved historical characters separates itself from your everyday history lesson.
