Alexander Hamilton, Young Statesman is part of the Young Patriots series of American biographies. It was published by Patria Press in 2008. With 116 pages and numerous black-and-white illustrations, it is aimed at readers ages 8-12. This volume is a reprint of Alec Hamilton: The Little Lion from the Childhood of Famous Americans series.

Young readers will enjoy the exciting, colorful stories describing Alec's childhood in the West Indies and his fervent desire to go to school. They will follow him as he journeys to the American colonies. The former US president vividly comes to life for children in this book.

Homeschool parents can make use of material in the back of the book. "What Happened Next?" outlines the rest of Alec's life. "Fun Facts" provides an interesting list of Hamilton trivia. Also included are a timeline of major historical events during Hamilton's lifetime and a one-page glossary.

Patria Press's website, www.patriapress.com, offers downloadable lesson plans for all of their books. For this book there are 11 pages of projects, web links, and suggestions for incorporating the book into different subjects. If you are looking for ideas for further study, you will certainly find something useful and doable.

Interesting biographies for young children can be hard to find. Patria Press is definitely filling a need by bringing these fine stories back into publication. My 8-year-old daughter loves the original Childhood of Famous Americans series and was excited to discover a new title. Even reluctant readers will find themselves pulled into this story. I enjoyed reading it too!