The Ride: Paul Revere and the Night That Saved America by Kostya Kennedy

 

Title:  The Ride: Paul Revere and the Night That Saved America

Author:  Kostya Kennedy

Narrated by:  Johnny Heller

Publisher: Macmillan Audio

Length: Approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes

Source: Thank-you to #Netgalley for the review copy. 

Who is your favorite historical figure?  I enjoy reading about all historical figures.  I find that I learn so much more than I did back in school when you only were able to kind of skim over the personalities as you learn about the overall picture of history.

On April 18, 1775, Paul Revere, a Boston based silversmith, engraver, and anti-British operative set out on a dangerous mission to let American colonists know that British troops were on their way. 

My thoughts on this audiobook:

·       Revere had 18 previous rides to report about British movements, but the one we know about had consequences across the war.  He was paid for these rides, and it helped to supplement his income.

·       I listened to this audiobook back in July on a trip to visit colleges with my son.  We both enjoy American history and this audiobook.

·       This year is the 250^th anniversary of Paul Revere’s most famous ride.

·       The audiobook had a good description of Paul’s family, Paul Revere himself, politics, and important figures of the time.

·       I was intrigued learning the story of Joseph Warner, Paul Revere’s friend who was killed.

·       William Dawes rode with Paul Revere and many people are angry that he doesn’t get more credit.  The book discussed a poem about Dawes that stated that this name was not as poetic as Revere and that his why he is not famous.  Revere’s ride was more impactful, and he was more important in the revolution movement.  Dawes is known today because of Revere.

·       The ride was intense and dangerous.  The book detailed the ride and made me feel the danger.

·       I liked the unique gravely voice of the audiobook narrator.

·       The book included detail on how Longfellow was inspired to write his famous poem.

·       It also explored Revere’s legacy and impact on popular culture.

·       It was interesting to learn that Revere rolled copper and helped keep the country going in the war of 1812.  Some historians think this is Revere’s most important contribution to the country.

Overall, The Ride: Paul Revere and the Night That Saved America by Kostya Kennedy was an intriguing audiobook that gave the background of Revere’s ride and why it was important in history.