From the Publisher
"Rockwell's detailed yet accessible text is perfectly matched with Cooper's exceptional oil paintings. . . . A profoundly successful work."—starred, School Library Journal
School Library Journal - Audio
★ 04/01/2017
Gr 2–5—The true story of James Lafayette, a Revolutionary double agent, will captivate and anger young listeners as they learn about the incredible dangers that James, an American enslaved person, took while trying to secure America's freedom from the British and earning his own from his masters. At great danger to himself, James became a spy for both the British and the American armies and played a pivotal role in helping win some major battles and, ultimately, the war. Realizing too late that freedom was promised only to enslaved soldiers, not spies, James had to fight to free himself from the very people he had just helped win their independence. Captivatingly narrated by Rodney Gardiner, whose deep, rich voice beautifully tells the tale of intrigue, adventure, and heartache with reverence and articulated care, the audiobook also includes a page-turn track and thematic music. VERDICT Perfect for young listeners wanting to know more about the Revolutionary War and African American history. ["A profoundly successful work": SLJ 11/16 starred review of the Millbrook book.]—Erin Cataldi, Johnson County Public Library, Franklin, IN
JANUARY 2018 - AudioFile
James, an enslaved man who took the surname Lafayette, thanks to his wartime benefactor, served as a double agent for Washington’s army during the American Revolution and then was returned to slavery. Narrator Rodney Gardiner, in a confident, deep voice, delivers Anne Rockwell’s spare text with respect and authenticity. Brief gaps correspond with page turns, inviting listeners to examine the illustrated book. Background sound effects—countryside songbirds, tramping feet in army encampments—are unobtrusive but sometimes seem superfluous. The most confusing element of the production is the placement of the author’s note. The background information on James is important and interesting—but on the recording is situated after the closing credits, which to most listeners signify the end of the audiobook. C.M.A. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine
