THE BOOK FAIR

Review:

"To Try Men's Souls," a novel of the American Revolution, reveals the courage and determination of George Washington’s endeavor, together with his fledgling army of farmers and immigrants, to bring forth an independent nation, against all odds.

In spite of defeats, deserters, disease, months of fighting in frigid cold, and often the lack of supplies, General George Washington never falters and rallies his men to carry on.

 

The novel centers on the historic event of General Washington crossing the Delaware.  The weather is freezing and morale is low.  Washington is desperate for victory.

 

Jonathan Van Dorn, an ordinary soldier fights in the Continental Army, believes in the Revolution, but also loves his brother, Allen, who fights for the British.

 

Thomas Paine, author of Common Sense, writes the pamphlets, "The American Crisis", that will stir the nation and give rise to freedom and independence.

Three days before the Battle of Trenton, December 23, 1776, Thomas Paine’s pamphlet “These are the times that try men’s souls…” is read to the Continental Army.

 

The beleaguered army of George Washington, so tattered, some soldiers wore only torn cloths for shoes, cross the icy river leaving behind bloodied footprints in the snow.  But they move quickly and with conviction in the freezing cold to face the stronger army of well fed, well clothed, well trained, well armed Hessians.  Tremendous fighting ensues, and the starving, ragged Continental Army prevails.

 

After the victory at Trenton, General Washington with bended knee upon the snow, lowers his head in prayer.

 

This is an American story of the men who endured great hardships, and in the midst fought so gallantly for the nation we are privileged to live in.

 

Co-authored by:  William Forstchen