A parent might reach for this book when their child begins studying American history in school or asks questions about historical battles and heroes. It serves as a clear, concise introduction to the events leading up to the famous 1836 Battle of the Alamo. The book explains the conflict between the Texan settlers and the Mexican government, introducing key figures like Davy Crockett and William B. Travis. It touches on themes of bravery in the face of impossible odds, the fight for justice and independence, and the resilience needed to stand up for one's beliefs. Designed for ages 8 to 12, this book provides essential historical context for a pivotal event, making it an excellent resource for school projects or for a child eager to understand the stories behind the legends.
The narrative focuses on a historical defeat and the deaths of the main subjects.
Sensitive Topics
The book's subject is war, which involves violence and mass death. The deaths of the Alamo's defenders are presented directly and historically, not metaphorically. The approach is secular and factual. While the battle itself is a tragic defeat for the protagonists, the book frames this loss as a heroic sacrifice that inspired the ultimate victory of the Texas Revolution, giving the story a hopeful and patriotic resolution.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is a 9 to 11-year-old who enjoys non-fiction and is ready for a straightforward account of a historical conflict. It is perfectly suited for a child doing a school report on Texas history or the Alamo, or one who has shown an interest in historical figures like Davy Crockett and wants the true story behind the legend.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss the reality of war and the fact that the historical figures in the book are all killed. Previewing the final chapter on the battle will help frame a conversation about sacrifice and why this particular defeat is remembered as a symbol of bravery. The book is self-contained, but discussing the aftermath (the Texan victory at San Jacinto) can provide helpful context. A parent might seek this book after their child comes home from school and says, "We learned about the Alamo today, but I don't get it," or asks, "Why did everyone have to die at the Alamo?" It's also a great primer before a family trip to San Antonio.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will likely focus on the action and the heroic, larger-than-life characters, seeing a clear story of good versus evil. An older reader (10-12) will be more capable of understanding the political motivations, the strategic implications of the battle, and the complex concept of fighting for independence against a national government.
What Makes It Special
Among books on this topic, Burgan's work stands out for its clarity and accessibility for the middle-grade audience. It provides more detail and context than a picture book but is far less dense than adult histories. Its structure, typical of Capstone publications, with clear headings, maps, and archival illustrations, makes it an excellent, fact-based educational tool.
Read plot summary
This non-fiction book provides a chronological account of the Texas Revolution, focusing on the circumstances that culminated in the 1836 siege of the Alamo. It details the growing tensions between American settlers in Texas and the Mexican government under General Santa Anna. The narrative introduces readers to key historical figures like Stephen F. Austin, William B. Travis, Jim Bowie, and Davy Crockett. The core of the book describes the 13-day siege of the mission in San Antonio and the final, fatal assault by Mexican forces.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
William B. Travis famously drew a line in the sand, asking his men to cross it if they would stay and fight. Why do you think most of them chose to stay, knowing they would almost certainly be defeated?
2
The battle cry after the siege became "Remember the Alamo!" How can a major defeat, like the one in this book, inspire people to eventually win a war?
3
The book discusses several leaders like William B. Travis, Jim Bowie, and Davy Crockett. What different kinds of bravery did each of these men show?
4
From the perspective of the Mexican government and General Santa Anna, why was it so important to stop the rebellion in Texas? Can you explain their point of view?
