Rebellion 1776 by Laurie Halse Anderson

What worked:

The book offers young readers a glimpse into the country’s conditions as it struggles for independence from England. Many people don’t support the rebellion, as they’re Loyalists, loyal to the King of England. The story opens with the British controlling Boston and the colonists firing their cannons into the city. Elsbeth, the main character, is hired by Mister Pike, who once spied on the British army. Loyalists hate him for working against the king, while colonists dislike that he worked with the enemy army and lost his fortune in the process. Missus Pike is livid that she can’t associate with the wealthy class, and the family’s financial issues put a hardship on the entire family. However, readers get a perspective of the range in standards of living, as the family’s wealth fluctuates. They’re also caring for Hannah, a young girl due to inherit money, as her guardian is away.

Details regarding the smallpox epidemic will have readers appreciating the marvels of modern medicine. Most people fear the disease and avoid traveling to Boston, where the more dense population makes it easier to catch. Inoculations for smallpox have recently been developed, but many people fear them. Receiving the inoculation is more painful than modern medicine’s simple shots. Sanitation is important, but advancements in this field are limited. Access to doctors is not widespread, as many of the trained physicians work for the military. Many readers will be shocked by the primitive methods of treating serious medical conditions.

Elsbeth narrates her story as she struggles to locate her father and become a seamstress. The status and role of women during this time period are addressed, and their opportunities and freedom are limited. She accepts the work and abuse in her position as a maid to remain in a stable living situation. Women are subservient to men, and most are expected to become wives. It’s inappropriate for single women to be seen in the company of men without a chaperone present. Hannah takes Elsbeth as her personal assistant, and the pair finds their alliance equally beneficial. The way Hannah is treated by her guardian and the Pikes may be even more disturbing than Elsbeth’s situation. Elsbeth has a special friend, but being a homeless orphan forces him to make questionable choices.

What didn’t work as well:

The plot is not fast-paced, as Elsbeth deals with many challenges. There isn’t a clear climax, although Hannah’s illness creates suspense. The final chapter brings resolution to any unanswered questions. It might have been more entertaining to make them part of the plot.

The final verdict:

While it takes place during the Revolutionary War, the story deals more with the role of women, social perceptions, greed, and surviving the smallpox epidemic. I recommend this book for older, middle-grade readers.