Henry Knox
Bookseller, Soldier, Patriot
By Anita Silvey; Wendell Minor (Illustrator)
(Clarion Books, Hardcover, 9780618274857, 40pp.)
Publication Date: November 2010
Categories: Biography & Autobiography - General
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A hearty eater, dapper dresser, bookseller to Loyalists and Patriots alike,and married into a staunch Loyalist family, Henry Knox may seem an unlikely hero.But his fascination with warfare and strategy and his support of the Patriot cause prepared him to do what no one else thought was possible: transport heavy artillery from Fort Ticonderoga, up and down snow-covered hills and across frozen lakes, to relieve the siege of Boston. The dramatic story of his achievements is all the more satisfying for being absolutely true, a little-known episode in the history of the American Revolution. Source notes, time line, bibliography, map.
Wendell Minor is the celebrated illustrator of more than forty picture books for children. His work reflects his deep interest in American history and American landscape and his desire to bring the natural world to children. He currently lives in rural Connecticut with his wife, author Florence Friedmann Minor. Visit him at www.minorart.com.
"The first half of this fully illustrated book deftly portrays Knox as a likable, optimistic youth, while the second half shows him as a determined 25-year-old officer leading the expedition that freed Boston in 1776. Quotes from period sources underscore the difficulties of the journey, while Silvey’s measured text ably tells the tale and puts events in their historical context."—Booklist, starred review
"The author portrays Henry as an enthusiastic, approachable man who loved books, artillery and food; who lost two fingers in an accident; who found possibilities where others found problems. Minor's realistic, stirring illustrations in acrylics on wood panels readily capture the gallant spirit of this man and his times. First-rate."—Kirkus, starred review
"What a superb, vivid, rendition of one of the great adventures in American history. A delight for all ages."—David McCullough, Author of John Adams and 1776.
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