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When Thomas Bowden and his family settle in frontier Pennsylvania, the war for American independence seems far away. Then Thomas's father leaves to join General Washington's army of Tories -- Americans loyal to the British king -- is near.

Thomas stubbornly denies the rumors -- how could war come to their beautiful valley? But soon he and his mother, younger sister, and baby brother are forced to flee, first to the rebel Forty Fort, where Thomas and a friend embark on a daring escapade against the Tories, and then across the Pocono Mountains by foot in a desperate bid to escape the enemy army.

Based on actual events of the Revolutionary War, this American Adventure is a fast-paced page-turner with solid period detail, fascinating characters, and excitement on every page.

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Hardcover

First published January 1, 1998

19 people want to read

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Bonnie Pryor

50 books5 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
82 reviews
January 12, 2012
Great story to help teach what life was like for many of the people during the Revolutionary War. Teaches character traits and overcoming obstacles. I am having my students read it as we learn about the war in social studies. They seem to be enjoying it. The cover does not do the book any justice.
Profile Image for Priya.
17 reviews3 followers
February 27, 2016
It was ok. The only thing I really liked was how Thomas got captured. I didn't like how they were running the whole time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Oak Lawn Public Library - Youth Services.
631 reviews14 followers
January 17, 2019
Title: Thomas
Author: Bonnie Pryor
Pages: 150
Lexile Level: 690L
Comments:
Thomas Bowden’s Father is away fighting under George Washington in the American Revolution. Meanwhile, Thomas, his Mother, and his younger siblings are left to fend for themselves in their home in Pennsylvania. When the Tories attack their home, Thomas’ family has no choice but to leave and search for a safe home ground. Thomas’ family first stops at Forty Fort, a patriot fort, where they receive food and safe place to stay. However, Thomas is not satisfied for long. He and his new friend Eben take it upon themselves to go spy on the Tories in their camp. They get captured and then have to figure out how to escape and warn the Patriots of the Tories plans. After getting back to Fort Fifty, Thomas and his family have to set out on their own, in order to ensure that they do not get captured by the Tories nor the Indians.
The very last chapter of the books explains why the Patriots were fighting the Tories & Native Americans. The author also goes on to describe (in much greater depth) what happened at Forty Fort. This is a good book for upper grade elementary school students who are learning about the Revolutionary War.
3/5 Stars
Reviewed By: Jen T.
Profile Image for Kathy.
112 reviews2 followers
December 28, 2009
I read this book with Trenton and Gavin. It teaches US history in a fun and adventurous way. The boys loved reading it and we are now reading the next book in the series. I love good authors who encourage children to read through good writing!

In a nutshell, Thomas is living during the Revolutionary War and this is the tale of his struggles and triumphs. Since it is written from a boys perspective, my boys thoroughly enjoyed the story. We can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.
883 reviews11 followers
June 16, 2014
gr 4-6 146 pgs

American Revolution, Wyoming Valley, PA. Thomas and his family are forced to leave their home after it is attacked by Tories. They head for the safety of Forty Fort, but are again forced to flee when it is taken over by British forces. Thomas, his younger sister, his mother, and baby sister decide to make the dangerous journey through the wilderness. They hope to eventually make their way to relatives in Philadelphia.
Profile Image for JaNel.
611 reviews2 followers
January 29, 2017
This book is about the American Revolution, but the story takes place on the frontier. I would like to have seen a story closer to the centers of "action" to bring the main events of the Revolutionary period alive for children, something along the longs of a younger Johnny Tremaine.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews

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