Learn how one of George Washington’s most heroic actions was one of inaction.
In this exacting and verbose recounting, Roberts tracks Washington’s travels from Manhattan to Maryland following the defeat of the “mighty British Army.” Along the way, he’s feted by admiring crowds. Finally, he reaches his destination and the pivotal moment that Roberts has been musing over: What power will the influential Washington choose to exert? Will he become king? Instead, shocking everyone, Washington “bows to the citizens of his new country” and resigns. The book is laser-focused on this brief period and the moment Washington relinquishes authority to the people is powerful. But young people will need to navigate a fairly wordy narrative before arriving at this symbolic moment. Additionally, the book assumes readers have considerable prior knowledge about America’s birth. The work is clearly well researched, reflected in the thoughtful backmatter (which includes an afterword, a timeline, bibliography, and further reading), but some elements—for instance, how Washington’s commitment to democracy clashed with his role as a slave owner—would have felt more germane incorporated into the main text. Gilbert’s realistic, densely crosshatched art in subdued tones has a classical grandness befitting the book’s solemn topic; these sweeping spreads would look right at home on a museum wall. Figures from all walks of life, including elegant ballroom occupants, dark-skinned children perched in trees watching fireworks, and weary, tattered soldiers, have theatrical flair.
A thorough account ideal for young history buffs. (Informational picture book. 9-13)