This book review was written by Eugene Kernes
“The four of them ate mostly in silence only asking general questions. “I don’t think that it is a good idea for you and Jenny to stay here any longer.” Said John and Thomas Agreed. “The British have been stirring up the Indians all over this territory.” Said Thomas with a mouth full of food. He wiped his mouth on his sleeve and continued. “That one you shot was just unlucky that he came alone and picked on you”” – Anthony Mastro, Chapter: Toledo, Page 6
“So John and Thomas joined Hull’s army as trackers. After a while camp life got dull for John and Thomas. At first the newness kept them busy but then they got tired of the routine. Although they made some new friends of the men in the camp by telling stories of the wilderness out west and beyond and of the many animals that there were just waiting for them to hunt, it was still getting tiring. It all came to an end one day when the order came that the next day they were to march on town called Sandwich in Canada” – Anthony Mastro, Chapter: Sandwich and Toledo Again, Page 11
“The next day Perry’s ship is fired upon by the British and Perry fights back. John and Thomas are on deck as the two come close to each other. “Keep your head down.” Thomas says to John and John ducks behind a barrel holding drinking water they keep on deck. As the bullets fly back and forth John is proud of the American marines he trained to shoot as they seem to be hitting more targets on the other ship than they themselves are being hit” – Anthony Mastro, Chapter, Page 22
Is This An Overview?
John and Thomas are trappers, who live in a brutal
world. To survive, every moment requires
caution and toughness. This is an era
when it was better to group together in communities, for higher chances of
survival. Although John and Thomas have
warfare skills, they maintain their humanity.
The story starts with them helping a few people move, as their region is
being attacked by American Indians, who have been motivated by the British. John and Thomas are uncertain about joining
any wars, but do join the army as trappers.
Finding motivation to be part of the developing country, to support the
efforts against the British. Even though
they prefer land over water, they still join a naval vessel to continue their
efforts in defending America.
Caveats?
This is a very short book, with
writing style being better or worse in places.
John and Thomas appear to be separate from the rest of society, how
others behave, as they represent something more ideal. There is not much character complexity, or
depth.
