Bushnell's Submarine: The Best Kept Secret of the American Revolution

Bushnell's Submarine: The Best Kept Secret of the American Revolution
By Arthur S. Lefkowitz
Scholastic Nonfiction, 2006, Nonfiction, 125pg.


David Bushnell is a little known American inventor. At the age of 31 he entered Yale College in 1771 and graduated just as the American Revolution began. His invention is considered one of the earliest submarines, and was one of the first to be used in combat. Designed with the intention of helping the rebel American's fight off the British Navy (the most powerful Navy in the world at that time), Bushnell's submarine was a example not only of advanced scientific engineering, but of American patriotism. Though his submarine never succeeded in blowing up a British ship, it's tale is one of heroism and the fascinating question of "What if it had worked?"

This really is a interesting story of history and Lefkowitz does an excellent job of telling it. Though his writing is steeped in research, it does not take on the erudite tone that can make a nonfiction history books terribly boring. It is told in a simple easy to read language. It is also not incredibly long. However, readers are able to walk away feeling like they have learned a great deal about the war, the people, science, and what the early patriots were will up against in their battle against Britain. This is a great book for history fans in general, but especially early American history buffs. This would also be a great title for anyone who want's to read a nonfiction book, but doesn't want to get bogged down in a large tome filled with unfamiliar terminology.