Johnny Tremain by Esther Hoskins Forbes

Johnny Tremain by Esther Hoskins Forbes -- 320 pages

Johnny Tremain, age fourteen, is an apprentice silversmith with great skill and natural talent. He whistles often and enjoys life, until tragedy strikes, and he is greatly disabled. His dreams and his future seem dashed to pieces, and those he used to taunt now taunt him.
As he can no longer silversmith, he finds a line of work as a rider and letter carrier.
Soon after the American Revolution is underway, and Johnny is challenged in his disabled state to do what he can to aid the cause of the Revolution.

This book is full of history and detail, and the story is a good one with challenge, excitement, and charm. While it seemed to bog down a little in the middle with static scenes and details, I've heard many children who have fallen in love with the book and did not seem to notice.