The Year of the Hangman

In 1777, 15-year-old Creighton Brown is sent from England to the American colonies by his mother to curb his rebellious behavior. Upon arrival, his ship is captured by American patriots, setting off a chain of events that forces him to question everything he believes about loyalty and freedom. The story takes place in an alternate history where George Washington was hanged for treason and the American Revolution appears to have failed. Creighton finds himself in colonial Philadelphia, where he encounters key figures from American history including Benjamin Franklin and Benedict Arnold. Through Creighton's experiences as an outsider caught between two worlds, this historical novel explores perspectives from both sides of the American Revolution. His position allows him unique access to both British and American camps as tensions continue to simmer. The Year of the Hangman raises questions about patriotism, personal conviction, and what drives people to fight for their beliefs. The alternate timeline serves as a lens to examine how history's course can hinge on individual choices and actions.

Readers find this alternate history novel engaging for middle-grade students, though some note it starts slowly. The book appeals particularly to 11-14 year olds interested in American Revolution history. Readers appreciate: - Historical accuracy and attention to detail - Complex portrayal of Benedict Arnold - Integration of real historical figures - Educational value while remaining entertaining Common criticisms: - Slow first few chapters - Main character takes time to become likeable - Some historical elements need more context for young readers - Resolution feels rushed Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (80+ ratings) Reader comments highlight the book's ability to make history accessible: "Made me interested in learning more about the Revolution" notes one 13-year-old reviewer. Multiple teachers report successful use in classrooms, though several mention needing to provide additional historical background for students.

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🔷 The book imagines an alternate history where the American Revolution failed, with George Washington being captured and hanged by the British in 1777. 🔷 Author Gary Blackwood spent years researching 18th-century colonial America, including details about medicine, clothing, and daily life, to create an authentic historical atmosphere. 🔷 The main character, Creighton Brown, was named after a real British officer who served during the American Revolution, though their stories are entirely different. 🔷 Benjamin Franklin plays a key role in the novel – during the actual American Revolution, Franklin spent much of his time in France securing crucial French support for the colonial cause. 🔷 The book's title references the year 1777, which contained three number sevens and was considered an ominous year by many colonists due to heavy American losses in battle.