Attack of the Turtle

By Drew Carlson

Book Overview

It's 1776, and the Revolutionary War is raging. Fourteen-year-old Nathan Wade is a patriot, but he's too young to join the fight. Then his cousin David Bushnell comes to town with a secret. David has designed a water machine that can explode bombs underwater. And his mission is to launch it against the British warships in New York harbor.

Nate reluctantly agrees to help David build the weapon of war -- dubbed the American Turtle. Although he's terrified of water and worried about getting caught, when unlikely circumstances put Nate at the center of the action, he must face the murky waters of his fears head-on.

Based on actual historical events, this adventure story captures the drama of the first submarine used in naval warfare and the struggles of a teenager overcoming self-doubt.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0802853382
• ISBN13: 9780802853387
• Release Date: February 2008
• Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
• Length: 157 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.4" x 8.2"
• Age Range: 9 to 14 years
• Grade Range: Grades 4 to 9

Customer Reviews

Teacher's Grade: A-

For anyone who likes history, "Attack of the Turtle" is going to be a treat. Drew Carlson has crafted an exciting story around the creation of the first submarine ever used in battle, and his use of historical detail and figures from history (including Ben Franklin & George Washington) during the Revolutionary War is well-done and believeable. The main character is not based on any real-life person, but provides a recognizable anchor for any kids reading this book. The battle scenes are good, the dialogue is excellent, and 'Attack of the Turtle' is a good book to either read aloud, or have 4-7th graders read on their own.

Attack of the Turtle: A Great Read and Much More!

I am an adult who happens to love children's literature and also history. Consequently, I read Attack of the Turtle. It is similar to the American Girls historical novels but for boys of the same age group, something that has not been available thus far. (Girls will also enjoy the book, however!) Turtle is well written, interesting, and engaging. When I had finished the book, I found myself wanting to know more--both about the characters the author created so well and about the historical events represented. I have a young niece who also read the book, and she agreed that, afterward, she wanted to know more. An author who encourages people of all ages to want MORE has created something magical, in my opinion. I hope Mr. Carlson has many more stories in mind!