Starred ReviewStarred Review A Spy Called James
The True Story of James Lafayette, Revolutionary War Double Agent
Told for the first time in picture book form is the true story of James Lafayette—an enslaved person who spied for George Washington’s army during the American Revolution.
After his resounding defeat at the battle of Yorktown, British general Charles Cornwallis made a point of touring the American camp, looking for the reason behind his loss. What he didn’t expect to see was James, an escaped enslaved person who had served as a guide to the British army. Or at least that’s what Cornwallis was led to believe. In fact, James wasn’t actually a runaway—he was a spy for the American army.
But while America celebrated its newfound freedom, James returned to slavery in Virginia. His service as a spy hadn’t qualified him for the release he’d been hoping for. For James the fight wasn’t over; his next adversary was the Virginia General Assembly. He’d already helped his country gain its freedom, now it was time to win his own.
| Format | Your Price | Add |
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978-1-4677-4933-6
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$14.99 | |
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978-1-4677-9058-1
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$24.99 |
Awards
- Notable AwardNotable Award Children's Book Committee at Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year
- Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Books
Reviews
Starred ReviewStarred Review School Library Journal
“Rockwell’s detailed yet accessible text is perfectly matched with Cooper’s exceptional oil paintings. . . . A profoundly successful work.”—starred, School Library Journal
Booklist
“With a compelling story and appealing artwork, this inviting foray into American history will catch the attention of many readers.”—Booklist
Publishers Weekly
“[Rockwell] delivers a striking portrait of James Lafayette, an African-American spy critical to the outcome of the Revolutionary War. [Cooper’s] illustrations affirm his skill as a gifted portrait artist.”—Publishers Weekly