THOMAS IN DANGER

This first entry in the American Adventures series is set during the Revolutionary War. When Mr. Bowden joins the Continental army to fight the British, Thomas Bowden, his mother and siblings, Emma and Ben, are forced to flee over the Pocono Mountains to Philadelphia and their Aunt Rachel’s home. Arriving at her sister’s door in a pauper-like state, Mrs. Bowden encounters new owners who are far less than friendly. The Jessups offer Mrs. Bowden a job as their servant only if she is willing to send Emma and Ben to the poorhouse. Rachel’s former servant, Lottie, comes to the aid of the Bowdens, helping them move into the Peach Tree Inn to provide meals for sea captains and businessmen. After overhearing a Tory spy make elicit plans to divert supplies from the Patriot army to the British, Thomas is kidnapped and taken to live with the Iroquois. Despite kindness shown to him, Thomas never fully assimilates into his new way of life and is left behind by the Iroquois when a Patriot army arrives to destroy their village. Pryor’s point, that there are always two sides to every issue, as well as substantial common ground, won’t be lost on readers, as both the Iroquois and the Patriots were fighting battles for independence. The historical details are vivid, the action unfolds at a strong pace, and as the exciting story concludes, the author’s parting comments will make readers reflect anew on American history. (b&w illustrations, not seen) (Fiction. 9-11)