Francis Marion

Children's Literature

This straightforward biography of Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion is carefully researched and well-written. Marion was born on a rice plantation near Charleston, South Carolina. As a child, he loved to explore the swamps surrounding his home. Later, he signed on as a ship's boy, but a near-fatal accident caused him to give up life on the seas. He returned home to South Carolina where he would have been content to farm his rice plantation and marry a childhood friend, but the Revolutionary War intervened and he chose to fight on the side of the rebellious colonists. Despite his small stature—he was barely 5 feet tall¾Francis was a brave leader whose detailed knowledge of the swamps helped him wage a successful guerrilla war against the British troops occupying South Carolina. His exploits earned him the title "Swamp Fox" and a congressional gold medal. After the war ended, he rebuilt his plantation and married his sweetheart. Amply illustrated with both color and black-and-white reproductions of archival images, the book includes a glossary, chronology, Revolutionary War timeline and recommendations for further reading. It is part of the series "Revolutionary War Leaders." 2001, Chelsea House, $18.95 and $8.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Joyce Schwartz

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-These accessible biographies offer a balance of facts about the notable deeds and human shortcomings of their subjects. For example, Allen is described as heroic but crude, headstrong, and not the best husband or father. The narratives are generally lively, but much of the information presented has been simplified. This does not present particular problems in Marion as the documentation on his life is limited. However, in Hancock, the discussions of his many political positions and responsibilities may confuse some readers. While the information in all the books is accurate for the most part, Gaines credits the Americans with defeating the British at Bunker Hill. Boxed text provides additional information and insight into the period in all three books. Well-placed color reproductions are accompanied by captions closely related to the text. Unfortunately, the titles and artists are omitted in the picture credits.-Carolyn Janssen, Children's Learning Center of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.