The Fifth of March

Title: The Fifth of March
Author: Ann Rinaldi
Ages: 14 and up

I really liked Ann Rinaldi's style of writing.  Her topic material is always riveting and there's usually a theme or moral that she has her character discover.  In these ways, she's a very good historical fiction writer.  The historical time period comes alive when you read anything she writes, especially the actual 5th of March.  However, I was kind of baffled that Rachel would think about allowing Matthew to treat her like he tries to.  (In this case the material is for teens.)  In the end, she does the right thing, which is a good moral lesson.  Rachel's character seemed a little bit superficial, but sometimes very relatable.  Knowing that the British were technically the "bad guys", and knowing that Matthew is British definitely prejudiced me against his character.  It was very interesting to find that many people in Boston were very conflicted about who's side to be on, including Rachel.  This aspect of the book was fascinating and helped me to realize that not all the Brits were awful people.  In the end, I'm glad I read the book.  I liked "Cast Two Shadows" by Ann Rinaldi a little bit better.  Both are worth checking out.

Content Advisory:  Older material about courting between guys and girls.  Matthew pressures Rachel to court him and wants to kiss her at one point.  Nothing seriously wrong.