Traitor: The Case of Benedict Arnold (Unforgettable Americans)

Benedict Arnold always carried things too far. As a boy he did crazy things like climbing atop a burning roof and picking a fight with the town constable. As a soldier, he was even more reckless. He was obsessed with being the leader and the hero in every battle, and he never wanted to surrender. He even killed his own horse once rather than give it to the enemy.

Where did the extremism lead Arnold? To treason.

America's most notorious traitor is brought to life as Jean Fritz relays the engrossing story of Benedict Arnold -- a man whose pride, ambition, and self-righteousness drove him to commit the heinous crime of treason against the United States during the American Revolution.

“A highly entertaining biography illuminating the personality of a complex man.” —Horn Book
“A gripping story. . . As compelling as a thriller, the book also shines as history.” —Publishers Weekly

An ALA Notable Book
A New York Times Book Review Notable Book of the Year
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
An ABA Pick of the Lists
A Horn Book Fanfare Title

Customer Reviews:

This was a very interesting and compelling book.

By A Customer - May 24, 1998

This book about Benedict Arnold told of his heroic deeds as well as his betrayal of our country. The book shows how Benedict Arnold's need to prove that he was courageous, and his desire to be a great hero and receive recognition, led to his downfall. It is a well written book which provided both historical information and entertainment.

February 16, 1997

By A Customer - February 16, 1997

This book was great! It tells all about Benidict Arnold. He is a VERY interesting boy. If you really like reading about Revolutionary Heros, then this is a good book to read. Of course you might not be able to call him a hero when you find out what happens at the end. This book tells all about Benidict, before, after, and during the war. Even if you don't like reading non-fiction, you will now. For instance, did you know that Benidict was obsessed with shoes? Or that he killed his own horse because he didn't want to give it to the British? Or that the woman he married was involved in a terrible scandal? Well, if this sound intriguing... READ IT!!!

A Fun Book to Stimulate Interest in History

By Patrick W. O'Hara "taparaho" - January 30, 2002

This is a fun book that should help your youngster develop an interest in American History. It is easy to read an has great illustratiions. You will not be disappointed with this purchase. Look for others by the same author.