The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery

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 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 show more 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. show less

"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 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 show more 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

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 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 show more highly recommended. show less

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 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.

Situated on the grounds of the most decisive battle of the American Revolution, a monument stands “in memory of the most brilliant soldier of the Continental Army.” Though no name graces the stone, it is understood that the monument stands in memory of hero turned traitor, Benedict Arnold. Highly regarded by George Washington for the gallant efforts he made in several early battles, Arnold was on track to rise through the ranks of the military officers. However, with his volatile temper, reckless tactics and rising fame, the Continental Congress, who held the military strings, had other plans for Arnold. Continually passed over for promotion and his successes under-appreciated, Arnold’s resentment festered. When his reputation show more could bare no more slander, Arnold made the fateful decision to switch allegiance to the British side. In a botched plan that was to quickly end the war with the British as the victors, Arnold effectively sealed his name in history as that of a traitor.

Winner of YALSA’s 2012 Excellence in Nonfiction Award, The Notorious Benedict Arnold is an informational book that reads as a story. For those who crave history but dislike the dry, often difficult language used in many nonfiction books, Sheinkin’s books are a welcome treat. A thoroughly researched and candid portrayal of one of America’s most notorious figures, Sheinkin gets to the center of the controversy surrounding Benedict Arnold. Was he a man desperate to advance his wealth and reputation at the expense of others or was he a great military leader who became disillusioned by the slights and insults of his peers? Seeing him through Sheinkin’s eyes, the reader can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for the man who charged fearlessly toward the battlefield in Saratoga and who could have possibly ended the war on that day if he had been allowed.

Teen readers who have an interest in history will instantly find a winner with this story. Teens who disavow nonfiction, but want to learn more about American History will also find this story captivating. show less

OK, call me a history buff, but I loved 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 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.

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 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 show more 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. show less