{Synopsis} – Ariel Bradley is Washington’s boy spy who pretends to be a country bumpkin (a “Johnny Raw”). He ‘stumbles’ into General Howe’s camp “looking for the mill” his father has sent him in search of. In reality, he is assessing the strength and numbers of the British and their Hessian (German) allies. After he is sent on his way by the unsuspecting English, he reports this to General Washington and his staff. This information proves key in what became known as the Battle of White Plains.
{My thoughts} – This book has a nice little history lesson about the Battle of White Plains in New York. Nine year old Ariel is asked to act “the Johnny Raw” in order to obtain information about the enemy troops for General George Washington. He does his task well and because of him they are able to win the battle.
I think this book would be a nice addition for school libraries as well as for home libraries where the children enjoy learning about history.
Final Conclusion: 5 Star Rating.
