Assassin

This book is about a girl named Arabella who comes face to face with John Wilkes Booth and his plan. The book is pretty good. It switches from Wilkes and Bella's point of view, which makes it more interesting. One thing I think if your younger and reading this that you need to know is that Bella is made up, and that nobody like her existed (atleast I don't think so), so don't think Bella and her story are true. But that didn't ruin the story for me one bit, its pretty fast-paced and you definitely learn the background of both of them. The book may only be from two views but I think you learn some about Wilkes AND Lincoln and, of course, the fictional character of Bella. Even if you don't like historical fiction I think you should read this book, if you know about John Wilkes Booth or you're interested in learning more about him I'd suggest this book, even if you don't really read historical fiction.

I read this book myself after my ten year old brought it home to read as a reading assignment. I am glad I chose to screen it, because I did not find it appropriate for her age group. The book was so good, though, that I could not put it down. I was intrigued by the historical detail intertwined with Arabella's fictional character. My heart pounded and I tried to imagine if these were indeed Booth's thoughts, or if his were more evil. A real page-turner.

Anna Myers has long been considered a shining star in the world of young adult fiction and her light does not diminish any in this book. It is the on-going, intertwining story of John Wilkes Booth (a real character who killed President Lincoln and Arabella "Bella" Getchel (a fictional character)who fell victim to Booth's charm. Myers has obviously done her homework in the case of Booth and the progression toward his final, terrible act. The facts are accurate, the story intriguing, our identification with Bella complete. A terrible event in history is portrayed in a way that holds the attention of the reader. Little more can be asked of a writer.

Bella is an assistant seamstress to Mary Todd Lincoln, and her involvement with one Wilkes Booth leads him to persuade her to betray his president. Bella may know right from wrong, but will she try to save her President? And will Wilkes hurt her to get at his goal. A fine history story.