Alexander Hamilton’s Wish for Battlefield Glory by C. Behrens offers an inspiring and motivational glimpse into the early aspirations and achievements of one of America's Founding Fathers. Aimed at young readers, this picture book blends historical facts with engaging storytelling to capture the essence of Hamilton’s relentless drive and significant impact on American history. The book begins with a young Hamilton, whose humble beginnings as an orphan did not deter his ambitions. Behrens skillfully narrates Hamilton’s evolution from a boy yearning for glory on the battlefield to a key figure in the founding of the United States. The illustrations by Bryan Werts beautifully complement the text, bringing to life the 18th-century settings and Hamilton's character.

I enjoyed this book immensely. Hamilton purchased a large swath of triangular land in my city, known as “Hamilton Gore.” I grew up in a home briefly occupied by Hamilton’s brother-in-law, John Barker Church, and the street was named after him. The story will be a valuable addition to our historical archives as it focuses on Hamilton’s desire for military and political greatness. It also teaches lessons about the importance of determination, hard work, and the belief in one’s dreams. The narrative does an excellent job of showing how Hamilton’s contributions were pivotal in shaping the nation, yet it also leaves readers wondering about the potential further impacts he could have had were it not for his untimely death. This element encourages readers to reflect on the lasting influence of historical figures. Alexander Hamilton’s Wish for Battlefield Glory is an inspirational story that highlights the power of aspirations and the influence one individual can have on the course of history. C. Behrens’ thoroughly researched book makes it an excellent resource for elementary classrooms.

Alexander Hamilton's Wish for Battlefield Glory by C. Behrens tells the inspiring story of one of the U.S. Founding Fathers. When Alexander Hamilton was 14, he made a wish with a friend and received it: he aspired to be a war hero. One day, he eventually achieved his wish and much more. While primarily aimed at children, this book does a great job of describing the events of Hamilton's youth, such as his mother's death after his father abandoned the family and the hurricane that struck his home in St. Croix. It also shows how he grew from a determined boy looking to make a name for himself on the battlefield to someone who utilized those experiences to help create the USA. This simple but passionate narrative emphasizes episodic historical events in Hamilton's life while also summarizing key stages in the American Revolution.

Alexander Hamilton's Wish for Battlefield Glory is an excellent book for introducing young readers to one of the most prominent Founding Fathers. I like how C. Behrens does this in a straightforward style, which helps youngsters who are learning history absorb the material more readily. Bryan Werts' illustrations are engaging, and appropriate for a children's book because there were no harsh war scenes presented. I also appreciate that the author mentions the articles he researched to create this book, which is a good touch. The book is exactly the right length to keep young readers engaged while also attracting the attention of adults who will enjoy it just as much.