Haym Salomon: American Patriot

Although Jews have been part of American history since 1654, their contributions don't often appear in school history textbooks and young Jewish readers can't often "find them" in the story of America. So, it is important to fill that gap with trade books for young readers about Jews who have played important roles in the building of America. Haym Salomon has become the iconic Jewish personality of the Revolutionary War. Born in Poland, he was a successful merchant, patriot and spy who risked his life, home and fortune for the Revolution. His daring activities have become a source of pride to later generations, placing Jews in the company of our heroic Founding Fathers. Unlike other Jews who fought and died in the war and are hardly remembered today, Salomon earned his place in history - whether exaggerated or not - as the patriotic "financier of the American Revolution." With little actually known about him, author Susan Goldman Rubin has fashioned an accurately researched and accessible account of Salomon's life and experiences. She skillfully and clearly weaves imagined conversations with factual information to provide an inviting view of Salomon, his accomplishments and Jewish colonial life. The book's light-hearted illustrations are very colorful and appealing and the change of typeface throughout the book creates a enjoyable read, but the near-cartoonish style doesn't seem to fit the more serious text. Indeed, the picture book format itself may not resonate with older readers who would probably find the information more relevant than the book's younger targeted readership. The very useful author's notes, glossary and endnotes provide additional historic information and readers looking for more detailed factual information will welcome the extensive bibliography. Reviewed by Norman Finkelstein

Reviewed by Eric Zeda (age 8) for Reader Views (6/07) This story is about a man named Haym Salomon. He helped George Washington win the war against the British troops. Haym traveled a lot and knew many languages. He used his abilities to help the American troops win independence. He joined a group called Sons of Liberty and helped raise money to help the soldiers that needed food, uniforms and boots. Haym was an American patriot who loved and protected his country. He got sick and died January 6, 1785. I liked this book because it was about war. It showed how the soldiers lived and how they suffered. I didn't know about Haym. It was nice to read about what he did for the soldiers. I also like the colorful pictures in "Haym Salomon: American Patriot."