SteveSheinkin

In my ten years as a history textbook writer, I was always trying to sneak Benedict Arnold stories into the books. And the editors were always cutting him out. The first time they crossed out Arnold, I asked for an explanation. My boss hesitated. He seemed to be in a small amount of physical pain. "Benedict Arnold makes me... nervous," he said.

I wanted to shout: That's exactly the point! That's what makes Arnold such a priceless character. He made George Washington nervous. He made Congress nervous. He was a Hollywood movie loose-cannon action hero - nearly two centuries before Hollywood action movies existed.

Now, many years later, I've finally gotten the chance to tell the story. The Notorious Benedict Arnold is a non-fiction action/thriller based on many years of research, and travels to all the places Arnold lived, fought, and drove his fellow Americans crazy. Click here for the Arnold Road Trip story.

"Sheinkin sees Arnold as America's 'original action hero' and succeeds in writing a brilliant, fast-paced biography that reads like an adventure novel... The author's obvious mastery of his material, lively prose and abundant use of eyewitness accounts make this one of the most exciting biographies young readers will find." -STARRED, Kirkus Reviews

"American history is brought to life in this engaging story of revolution and treason... The Notorious Benedict Arnold is likely to make readers want to learn more about the American Revolution and its players, great and small."
-STARRED, School Library Journal

"Several complex political, social, and military themes emerge, one of the most prominent being that within the Continental army, often simplistically depicted as single-minded patriots, beat hearts scheming with political machinations that are completely familiar today... Arnold's inexorable clash with Gates and his decision to turn traitor both chill and compel."
- STARRED, Horn Book Magazine

"History junkies are in for a treat when they pick up this lively, highly readable biography of the U.S.' most vilified traitor... A worthy addition to all libraries."
-Booklist