The Boston Tea Party

In this addition to Freedman's (Lafayette and the American Revolution) long-running Library of American History series, he again demonstrates his proficiency at distilling history with insight into both the events described and the individuals involved. Malone (Big Wig: A Little History of Hair) contributes evocative, gauzy watercolor paintings distinguished by meticulous period detail. The accessible text and sprawling pictures sweep readers into the fervor of Boston streets in December 1773, portraying the colonists' passion and determination to block British ships' crews from unloading tea to protest "the latest in a series of taxes that incited massive colonial opposition." Quotations from eager teenage participants give the story immediacy and relevance, and their voices help crystallize the protestors' enthusiasm and solidarity. "Wishing to have my share of the fun," a young mason's apprentice disguises himself as a "Mohawk" (like the other protestors), only to find himself working alongside his employer. An afterword on the Boston Tea Party's connection to the outbreak of the Revolution, a bibliography, and a time line conclude this smart, succinct book. Ages 7%E2%80%9310. (Sept.)