The Fighting Ground

Setting:New Jersey, The Crossroads of the American Revolution The Fighting Ground takes place over a 24 hour period in New Jersey on April 3 and 4, 1778 . New Jersey was in a key geographical position located between the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the British command center located in New York City. New Jersey was at the center of the new nation and was heavily involved in the fighting from 1775 until 1783. Called the Crossroads of the American Revolution, New Jersey had more military engagements than any other state during the war as troops moved throughout the state. George Washington and his troops in the Continental Army spent almost half of the Revolution in New Jersey.

Text Complexity:

Lexile Level: 580

The Fighting Ground - Audio-book

Themes/Units

Conflicts between:

  • Father and son relationships
  • Taking a stand -Authority
  • Fear & Failure
  • One day of the American Revolution through youthful eyes

Summary of Book: The Fighting Ground is a thirteen year-old boy’s 24-hour view on the Revolutionary War. Jonathan looks at war as an opportunity to defend his country and become a hero. He goes to fight for his county against his parents’ wishes by misquoting them. Once involved in the commitment to go to war, the “tables turn from the glory of war to the harsh realities”, the too big gun, the long 20 mile walk/march, the lack of water and food, the lack of communication, and the unanswered questions. After the first encounter with the (Hessians) Germans fighting for the Tories (colonists who support the British), he sees death and confusion, and runs for his life. While hiding he sees three Germans surround him, and because he can’t understand them he surrenders. Through the manly events of captivity, he becomes more confused as he loses the “hero image” and tries to figure out whose side he is really on.

Liberty! The American Revolution (1998) A PBS documentary, rich with Revolutionary War history. Live action and dramatic narrative frame events throughout our country's foundation.