I’ve been portraying Susan B. Anthony in costume and researching her family since I wrote her biography in 1994. I became hooked when I discovered her brother Daniel Read Anthony, the subject of my 2017 novel The Truth About Daniel. Although raised a Quaker, he was one of the original Kansas Jayhawkers, possessing a lightning speed trigger finger and an even quicker temper. Chronicling his courtship of an heiress from Martha’s Vineyard has led me to ten cities as well as many delightful side trips to study Victorian customs and the Civil War. I enjoy English Country Dancing every week and one of my favorite scenes happens at a ball.
Ben doesn't understand why he can't focus on anything and he's always getting into trouble. After finding out he as ADD, he and his family find ways for him to cope with his problem and strive to be better. Arranged as both a picture book and a general fiction book, this book should appeal to any age. I found the story line okay, but I just didn't believe the characters. Was Ben suffering from ADD or simply not being held responsible for his actions? We won't know because it's not made certain.
Ben's Dad did an excellent job explaining ADD / ADHD in a way kids will understand. Kids who see themselves as "less than" [forgetful, clumsy, criticized by siblings all the time] may find a friend in Ben.