Dolley Madison, the White House, and the Big Tornado

Gr 3-5--Boynton and Blevins chronicle the events preceding and immediately following Dolley Madison's famous rescue of George Washington's portrait from the burning of the White House. The book opens at dawn on August 24, 1814, as the British prepare to launch their attack on Washington, DC. When it becomes clear that it is no longer safe to remain in the White House, Madison orders the painting be removed for safekeeping. What follows is the destruction of the country's capital, and ultimately, a violent thunderstorm that limits the spread of the flames. Alternating spreads offer the perspective of the Americans in the city, followed by the British army. Di Lauro's striking illustrations portray the American point of view primarily in shades of blue, while the British outlook is a variety of reds. Some illustrations may disturb younger readers, such as one portraying a British soldier shot from his horse. Viewpoints range from Dolley Madison to an American soldier, a British lieutenant, and a young enslaved boy, to name a few. Back matter includes further information about notable figures seen throughout the book as well as facts about the time period. VERDICT A stunningly illustrated exploration of a notable historical event, this is a timely and excellent addition to historical collections.--Olivia Gorecke, Cape May County Library, Ocean View, NJ

Introducing the events of the Burning of Washington, Boynton and Blevins follow Dolley Madison (1768-1849) through a fateful event: the British invasion of the U.S. capital during the War of 1812. Densely packed, small-font paragraphs integrate quotes and rhetorical questions: "Admiral Cockburn and his troops regroup to rest and care for their wounded. They will wait for dusk to make their next move./ Will that give Dolley enough time to escape?" An off-putting illustration of Madison as a potential "war prize" may disturb, but di Lauro otherwise offers atmospheric, shadow-emphasizing spreads rendered largely in red and blue. Extensive back matter offers brief epilogues for each character, additional historical anecdotes, and a bibliography. Ages 10-up. (May)