One April in Boston



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Travel back in time to a week in April 1775 and experience the events that lead to the birth of freedom and the founding of a new nation.

One April in Boston is the story of several generations of an American family. The 120 page book contains pen and ink illustrations created by Cortney Skinner and 35 full color photographs of original documents, paintings, and artifacts. It is written for children ages 10-13, and is also available on CD.

One April in Boston revisits the life of 10-year-old Ben Edwards, a boy who actually lived in Colonial Boston at the time of the American Revolution. An orphan at the age of eight, he was raised by his Aunt Sarah and his Uncle Alexander Edwards, a member of the Sons of Liberty. Ben grew up at an exciting time and his uncle's patriotic connections gave special meaning to the events he experienced.

Ben dreams of a life full of adventure. He wants to be a mariner, just like his grandfather, an early Boston sea captain. Ben puts this goal in writing and never gives up on it. Throughout the story, he carries a spyglass that once belonged to his seafaring ancestor. Ben believes he can glimpse the future through its lens. All dismiss his claim except for his cousin Betsey. She is certain that Ben can truly see images of things to come through his spyglass.

In One April in Boston, you'll meet Ben, his sister Sally, and cousin Rebecca, and discover his passion for the sea. You'll encounter his Aunt Sarah and Uncle Alex, a cabinetmaker, and learn about his involvement in the Sons of Liberty. You'll light the signal lanterns with Robert Newman and follow silversmith Paul Revere on his famous Midnight Ride to Lexington. Finally, you'll stand beside Ben and his cousin Betsey as they hear the Declaration of Independence being read for the first time in Boston.

According to family legend, in 1905 the spyglass was passed on to Ben's great-great-grandson, Philip Edwards, who glimpses his own future through it. You'll follow Phil as he travels to Boston in 1909 to learn more about his ancestors. In 1917, Phil has a commitment he must keep. He kisses his sweetheart Ella goodbye and goes to France to fight for his country. What happens next is sure to leave a lasting impression on every young person and patriotic American who reads this book.

At the conclusion of the story you'll learn what became of Ben's spyglass and discover where it can be found today. You'll leave with a new found appreciation for the choices and sacrifices made by patriotic Americans from the time of the American Revolution to the present day.

One April in Boston is the result of the author's six-year search for his family's history. In the second part of the book, he shares the highlights of that search (which began with only a few clues) and tells readers how they can discover their own families' stories.

To order a copy of One April in Boston in paperback or on CD, please click here.