Rebellion 1776 written by Laurie Halse Anderson and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: From bestselling author Laurie Halse Anderson comes a engaging middle-grade historical fiction novel, "Rebellion 1776." Set during the chaotic spring of 1776, the story follows thirteen-year-old Elsbeth Culpepper, who finds herself alone and struggling after her father goes missing amidst the Siege of Boston. As the city grapples with the tumult of the Revolutionary War and the devastating smallpox epidemic, Elsbeth must navigate her new reality while seeking employment to avoid an orphanage. Having survived smallpox as a child, Elsbeth takes a job caring for a wealthy family awaiting inoculation. The narrative beautifully intertwines her personal challenges with the historical context of the time, showcasing the public’s fear of inoculation and the fight for survival against an invisible enemy. Elsbeth’s resourcefulness and humor shine through as she develops relationships with those around her, including the conflicted Hannah Sparhawk. Anderson’s attention to detail in depicting the era and the struggles faced by her characters offers readers a poignant look at resilience and courage during a time of upheaval. "Rebellion 1776" is a powerful story that connects historical events with the personal journeys of young individuals. 

Straignt Talk for Librarians: This is a great new release for book discussions or reading circles to encourage students to explore the Revolutionary War and the smallpox epidemic. Lots of  interactive programming options can be implemented, such as history-themed escape rooms or project-based learning activities where students research and present on topics related to the book. Incorporating primary source documents, such as letters from the era, can deepen students' understanding of the time period. Additionally, hosting author study sessions focused on Laurie Halse Anderson's works can inspire students to engage with historical fiction. 

I loved this book!  I put off reading it for a little bit because I knew it was going to be an emotional rollercoaster. When I started, I could not put it down!  I really loved the perspective from just an average person.  Elsbeth was just focused on surviving the day and not really invested in politics.  Boston was not filled with freedom zealots like a lot of stories portray.  There were people who would be affected by war in many different ways.  War is hard and dangerous.  Lots of men died fighting for one side or the other.  Disease took men, women and children.  I imagine it was a pretty wild time to be alive.  I appreciate how the author wrote the story to focus on hope and resilance, despite the dire circumstances.  This is a perfect book for any middle school library.  I would even say that it will find a lot of readers at the high school level, especially if there are a lot of historical fiction and Laurie Halse Anderson fans.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and NetGalley for an Advance Reader Copy.  This book is out April 1, 2025!!!