Secret Weapons

March 1, 2009
Gr 2-6-Using a part text, part graphic novel approach, Gunderson tells the story of Daniel Milton. The son of a peace-loving blacksmith, he yearns to join the militia, but his father wants him to stay and work in the shop. When Daniel discovers that his father has been secretly making ammunition for the Patriots, he becomes involved in hiding the musket balls and shells from the British. This action-packed novel moves quickly through the events of the Battle of Lexington and Concord as Daniel matures and learns what his role in the war will be. Obviously meant for reluctant readers, the narrative flows easily. However, the discussion questions, writing prompts, and Web site listed in the back give it a textbooklike appearance, perhaps turning off the very readers it is trying to reach. A supplemental purchase."Anne Knickerbocker, formerly at Cedar Brook Elementary School, Houston, TX"

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