Publication Dec. 14, 2024
Be careful what you ask for. You just might get it. Alexander Hamilton got what he asked for when he shared a wish with a friend at the ripe ol' age of 14. He wanted to be a war hero. He eventually got his wish and so much more. While squarely aimed at children, this book does a good job sharing the basics of his early life, including the death of his mother after his father had deserted the family and the hurricane that hit his home of St. Croix and brought him not only attention but passage to the then American colonies and an education.
Given the wildly successful broadway show of "Hamilton", I lean toward most children having at least heard the name. Well, or from seeing his face on our ten dollar bills. What they may not be quite so familiar with is his unabashed hopes of becoming a war hero although he's more known for his writing and, well, to be simplistic, his mind. The book doesn't ignore this but does give it less attention, something I wish it'd emphasized a bit more. What can I say? It's the former teacher in me coming out. Setting goals and working toward them is a worthy focus, of course. That said, again, those other traits aren't ignored, I just wish they'd been more prominent. There's a short recap of his life after the Revolutionary War, I'll note, including about his funeral and, yes, his role in our monetary system and picture on a paper bill. The author also cites the works consulted, which was a nice touch.
The illustrations were solid and there were no distinctly dead bodies on the battlefields depicted,. If you have little ones who might ask, that's not really an issue. A solid little book that will introduce your child to one of the most influential characters among our Founding Fathers. Seeing such a well-known figure begin in poverty and emerge as a strong leader is a strong message. Thanks #BookSirens for sending me this early copy. Now, if only I could get the "Hamilton" song "Alexander Hamilton" out of my mind.
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