I’ve always had an interest in history, particularly U.S. History. It’s a very messy and complicated timeline of events that is still, and probably always will be, revised as new information is brought to light and worked into the overall narrative that we attempt to simplify for those who are just learning about it for the first time, particularly children.
Author C. Behrens has developed a kid-friendly text about one notable character in U.S. History that provides some basic facts about one of its most well-known founders with his book, Alexander Hamilton’s Wish for Battlefield Glory. Check out my review of this entry into the children’s historical nonfiction genre along with an interview with Behrens. Then enter to win a copy via the Rafflecopter form below!
Alexander Hamilton’s Wish for Battlefield Glory plot summary
Alexander Hamilton’s Wish for Battlefield Glory tells the story of U.S. founding father Alexander Hamilton’s life from his teen years growing up in St. Croix to a Revolutionary War hero who played an instrumental part in some key battles as well as the formation of the country’s constitution, government, and military. Each page features a seminal moment in Hamilton’s life and how his personal goals and determination led to his greatest triumphs and eventual death.
Told in a broad, yet straightforward style, the book serves as a kind of creative history book to introduce young readers to a small but vital figure and era in U.S. History. It doesn’t bog itself down with dates or details but instead provides an overview of particular battles that he participated in and occupations that he held which eventually earned him a spot on the country’s $10 bill.
The story
What I like about the story that is being told is that it focuses on Hamilton’s penchant for strategy over brutality. Yes, there’s a lot more to the stories than what is appropriate to portray in a children’s book, but Behrens is able to show that remaining level-headed and gaining the upper hand using discretion is the key to success rather than running into battle and unnecessarily putting lives at risk.
Hamilton’s book smarts are also highlighted as one of his strengths, much to his chagrin at times. Though his peers found a lot of use in his ability to articulate himself and his compassion for his fellow soldiers led him to recognize the need for creating a strong central government that could provide much-needed resources and look out for their citizens, particularly those who were putting their lives on the line in the hopes of forming their own country, it hindered his personal goals to become a hero on the battlefield. However, he found balance in being useful in both respects, and it further cemented his standing as a founding father.
The style
The book is organized into episodic events that are presented in timeline order that spans from Hamilton’s youth to after his death. I love that the text is bordered by what is made to look like period-accurate scrolls with modern type and large letters that give it a clean and easy to read look. The text boxes are overlayed over the full-page illustrations which help draw the eye to the action on each page.
Each page contains a few sentences of long text that explains every event from Hamilton’s point of view. Many famous battles are highlighted including the crossing of the Delaware River, the battle at Valley Forge, and the famous duel that took his life.
The illustrations
The illustrations by Bryan Wertz are cartoony yet detailed. They feature tons of battlefield action and various backgrounds that help to distinguish the two sides and the many battles that are featured.
I like that Hamilton is drawn with large, fierce eyes that highlight his drive and intensity without making him look villainous. He shows a lot of emotion which highlights his humanity and shows that, despite his lifelong dream to fight in a war, he has compassion, levelheadedness, and focus.
My recommendation
I recommend Alexander Hamilton’s Wish For Battlefield Glory to older elementary school readers who may take an interest in or who are learning about U.S. History to help provide them with some context as to what they are studying and put a personal spin to events that happened hundreds of years ago.
Some of the language is a little advanced for these readers, but it would make a great book to have in classrooms with teachers around to help explain the more advanced vocabulary and concepts. Its eye-catching illustrations and enthusiastic tone also makes it less serious than the stuffy texts that kids are forced to read in school. And it might even make them want to seek out more stories about the events of the Revolutionary War.
It was refreshing to read a story tailored to older kid readers, and this book feels like something that would have been on the shelf at my local library growing up. It’s something that gives you a little entertainment and a little education at the same time.
My rating
Enter the giveaway!
An interview with C. Behrens
Out of all of the founding fathers, why did you choose Alexander Hamilton to spotlight? What is your favorite fact about Hamilton?
When the Broadway play came out, Alexander received a lot of exposure. His name was everywhere, and I became very intrigued by his rags to riches story. I wanted to know how he became such an important figure in American history. The more I researched, the more curious I became!
There are so many facts that I love. He could have become president despite not being born in America. He is credited for the “crown” in roadways! The crown is in the center and the pitch sends rainwater toward the curbs. Yes. That is true. It caught my attention because I worked in public works for 31 years and had no idea Hamilton had something to do with it.
Do you have any advice for those who would like to write a picture book?
I recommend reading a lot of picture books, especially ones that are similar to the type he/she plans to write. Also, it’s always good to receive feedback and editing of your stories.
Paying for professional editing can take your stories to a higher level. You can find excellent freelance editors online.
Speaking to other authors can be helpful. Reading books on how to write picture books is always a good idea.
Webinars can provide a wealth of information. Joining different groups and following blogs can help you learn. I learned a ton from all kinds of blogs and groups.
Why do you think that Hamilton was so drawn to being a war hero? What is it about fighting in a war that appeals to certain people?
I think people in general want to advance their lives or become famous somehow and that was no different for Alexander. During that time, a war was a way one could become famous and advance one’s life.
I liken it to today’s social media. Look how many people flock to TikTok or other media in hopes of going viral. That’s what comes to mind. Maybe Hamilton was trying to go viral.
What are your favorite historical books?
Ron Chernow’s biography about Hamilton is one of my favorites. Jim Whiting’s children’s book about Joan of Arc. France in the Middle Ages 987-1460: From Hugh Capet to Joan of Arc by Georges Duby is a favorite for its piece on Joan of Arc. My book about AH
How closely did you work with illustrator Bryan Werts to come up with the illustrations for the book?
Very closely. I credit him for allowing me to be heavily involved. I have a minor in art, so I have an eye for it and love being in the middle of it.
Bryan created a storyboard from my notes, and we took it from there. I can’t thank him enough for allowing me to ask for changes and alterations.
We worked well together and are currently working on a new picture book! It’s a book about basketball and stems from my award-winning poem: a basketballer’s ditty!
What is your favorite page?
I would say the double-page spread of the Battle at Monmouth. Sometimes, we can miss an opportunity in life for a variety of reasons.
In that moment, Alexander was in the middle of an important errand for George Washington. However, he did not miss the opportunity to fight, lead, and excel. He proved that he was made for this historical happening! And to be willing to die in the battle for the cause is an amazing testament to his deep desire to fight for something greater and not just become a hero.
What is the best compliment that you have received about your writing? The best criticism?
There are so many compliments that I can’t choose just one. The first story I ever wrote was praised by Lorian Hemingway, so how can that not be the best one! I wrote that story in a creative writing class at DC. The professor also praised my writing, saying, “Now that’s real writing!” That was right after I read the final revision for the class.
The same professor criticized something I wrote, as well. But it was her criticism that made me work harder.
The praise from many of the editorial reviewers means a lot, as do the awards. The praise from credible professionals confirms you are meant to do this. Writing can be tiresome and grueling, so the reviews, awards, and happy readers keep you going.
Another piece of criticism came from an editor at Penguin. She loved the idea and start of my first children’s book and almost made me an offer, but she felt it needed too much work. She gave me a few pointers, which helped me advance that story. I saved her email and want to print it and frame it!
What is a historical topic that you’d like to tackle in the future? Would it be for children or adults?
I love this question because I already have a children’s picture book written about Joan of Arc. Again, another story born from an English class at Dominican University! It was a class specific to Joan of Arc. Adults will be able to relate to it.
As with all my writings, I conducted extensive research and uncovered some unique information about Jehanne D’Arc! Can’t wait to bring this one to life!
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