Summary: Let It Begin Here describes Paul Revere’s Ride to the first battle that started the American Revolution. The Battle of Lexington and Concord. Paul Revere rides on a horse to warn Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and other patriots that the British are coming to arrest the rebel supplies. The people begin to arm themselves with muskets wearing nothing but farm clothes. No one knows who fired the first shot but that battle at Lexington begins and lasts for 8 minutes The British then head to Concord where the Militia are waiting for them. The Americans lost but they showed the British that they would stay and fight and die for their independence.
Personal reaction: Although this book only tells the simple version of this event, it allows a child to see how history occurred. The pictures bring history to life to the reader. The way the story was told even makes learning history sound interesting.
Extension ideas:
1.Have a dress up day where they can dress as redcoats and militia members or towns people.
2.Have them make a timeline with the book

This book tells the story of the events prior to Independence Day. This is a great book that builds anticipation. The students can learn about the battle as well as practice working with clock,s by using the documented times in the book to calculate how much time passed between each event.

Grade: Primary

Although written a bit below 5th grade level, this book provides a brief, yet thorough look at the beginning of the American Revolution. I also like that there are maps in the front and back of the book.