(3) 4-6 Illustrated by John O'Brien. Castrovilla chronicles the relationship between André and Arnold as the two conspired during the Revolutionary War to aid the British in capturing West Point. The failed mission resulted in André's being captured and hanged while Arnold safely defected to the British, earning him a legacy as a traitor. Full-page pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations enhance the readable picture-book narrative. Timeline, websites. Bib.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) 4-6 Fact Finders: Perspectives on History series. "What could lead a distinguished general to betray the Patriot cause?" The book tackles that question by examining Arnold's military successes and frustrations as well as his flawed, insecure personality. Sidebars vary in value and relevant placement, but there's lots of interesting history here. Though he's mostly maligned, the narrative does humanize the notorious traitor. Common Core critical thinking questions are appended. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen

(2) 4-6 The British take control of New York City in 1776; several years later, Sophia Calderwood takes a job surreptitiously as a spy and discovers Benedict Arnold's plot to turn West Point over to the British. Avi's setting is impeccable; the intrigue on the home front, real; and the tension of living in enemy territory, intense. An author's note distinguishes fact from fiction. Bib., glos.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2012

(1) YA Benedict Arnold, ambition-driven, believed the Revolution was his path to honor, respect, and wealth; his decision to turn traitor is both chilling and compellingly portrayed. Interspersed throughout this biography is the story of Major John André, the British officer who colluded with Arnold. Numerous quotes (many from original sources and all documented) add to the lively narrative. Maps are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2011

(2) YA Murphy examines rumors and facts about Benedict Arnold. Much of this examination, particularly of the political machinations of the Continental Congress and Arnold's military record, involves tremendous detail. Tactical and political mistakes come to the forefront, along with ugly gossip. Showing respect for his audience, Murphy leaves the ultimate judging to his readers. Detailed source notes complete the book. Ind.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2008

(4) 4-6 American War Biographies series. Three Revolutionary war heroes (one turned traitor) and three Civil War figures are featured in these generally well-written, though repetitive, biographies. Timelines are featured in each copiously illustrated chapter, and sidebars cover such related topics as prisoners of war and other important persons. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these American War Biographies titles: Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant, Benedict Arnold, Ethan Allen, and John Paul Jones.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman

(3) YA Historical American Biographies series. These competently written biographies cover a wide range of subjects who lived between the American Revolution and World War II. The texts are supplemented by black-and-white photographs and reproductions, as well as information boxes that provide colorful background information or place events within historical context. The final pages of each volume discuss the legacy of each subject. Time lines are included. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 Let Freedom Ring series. With occasionally stilted language, each of the flattering biographies in this series briefly chronicles the early life and later accomplishments of colonial figures. Features include maps, time lines, Internet sites, and historical places related to the subject. Archival paintings, without bibliographic citations, and photos of period clothing and household items serve as illustrations. Bib., glos., ind. [Review covers these Let Freedom Ring titles: Thomas Jefferson, Betsy Ross, Benedict Arnold, Benjamin Franklin, Phillis Wheatley, George Washington.]

Reviewer: Lauren Aimonette LIang