Rebellion 1776

This well-crafted novel by Anderson (Shout) opens in March 1776, on the eve of the Loyalists’ forced evacuation of Boston. Thirteen-year-old Patriot supporter Elsbeth Culpepper is new to Boston following relocating with her father from Philadelphia after her mother and siblings’ deaths from smallpox. When her father disappears on Evacuation Day, Elsbeth, passing for 16 due to her height, feels lucky to be hired as a servant by Patriot spy Mister Pike, even after the arrival of his large family, including their headstrong ward Hannah Sparhawk and demanding housekeeper. Quick-thinking Elsbeth conquers the chaos of the Pikes and finds a protector in Hannah but worries about her only friend in Boston, “masterless,” orphaned Shube—who is suddenly inspiring a “strange volley of sensations” in her—and strives to find her father. Period details of daily life during the events of the founding of the United States—relayed via Elsbeth’s historically faithful narration—immerse readers in the era, and plot points become compellingly relevant to contemporary times when Boston is hit by the smallpox epidemic and controversies about inoculation abound. Dated chapters open with quotations from primary sources, enhancing the historical ambiance. Includes a map of Boston, source list, and bibliography. Main characters are white. Ages 10–14. (Apr.)