This highly entertaining and illuminating book chronicles the War of 1812.  However, the book is more about the life of Andrew Jackson than it is the War of 1812.  In addition to Andrew Jackson, the book includes fascinating accounts of other prominent historical figures of the time including James and Dolley Madison, Winfield Scott, Aaron Burr and Daniel Webster.  1812 provides valuable insight into matters dealing with trade, geography, sectionalism, the early U.S. political scene and Anglo-American relations.  Jackson’s personal life is also featured, including his "scandalous" relationship with Rachel Robards who, at the outset of their relationship, is unhappily married to another man.

Comment
     The book is well researched, and the historical backdrop for the story is generally accurate.  Though published in 1996, the book actually precedes chronologically Nevin’s very successful Dream West (it became a TV miniseries), which was published over a decade earlier in 1984.  Nevin includes “Notes on Methods and Sources” that describe his major sources and points out the historical inaccuracies included to improve the storyline.  As Nevin explains, "Historical fiction should strive for the story that underlies reality and thus become an imagined reality."  The book contains mild profanity and sexual references. 

Reading Level:  6.5
Interest Level:  Young Adult
567 pages

Supports the following Instructional Objectives:
Examine the Testing of American Political and Military Power During the War of 1812

     "You're sweet on young Jackson, ain't you" Ma said.
     "Oh, Ma," Rachel said.  "He's . . . nice, that's all."
     Of course she was sweet on him.  Andrew Jackson was rail-skinny but strong in that Scotch-Irish border way, long-limbed and fierce.  He had red hair that blazed like his temper, eyes that snapped and sparked and went from sky-blue to purple when he was angry, a laugh you could hear a half mile off, and a way about him like a pistol on cock - he was vivid, that's what he was, made you feel good just to be with him, made life itself seem exciting and full of mysterious meaning.

Picture courtesy of the White House web site at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/history/presidents/aj7.html
Accessed June 5, 2002

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