A Spy Called James: The True Story of James Lafayette, Revolutionary War Double Agent
What’s inside...
A Spy Called James: The True Story of James Lafayette, Revolutionary War Double Agent by Anne F. Rockwell is a children's book that tells the remarkable story of James Armistead Lafayette, an African American who played a crucial role in the American Revolution. Born into slavery in Virginia, James Lafayette gained the trust of the British as a spy while secretly relaying vital information to the American forces. His intelligence gathering was instrumental in the American victory at the Battle of Yorktown. The book highlights his bravery and the challenges he faced, including his fight for freedom after the war. It is a tale of courage, cunning, and the quest for liberty, shedding light on a lesser-known hero of American history.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think James Lafayette felt being a spy during the Revolutionary War?
What challenges did James face and how did he overcome them?
Why do you think trust is important in James’ role as a spy?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like James?
What impact did James Lafayette have on the outcome of the Revolutionary War?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in James Lafayette’s shoes to enhance empathy and understanding. Highlight the historical context and its relevance today to pique their interest in history. Discuss the moral dilemmas James faced to deepen critical thinking. Relate the themes of bravery and resilience to your child’s personal experiences to make the story more relatable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, James Lafayette, demonstrates immense courage as he serves as a double agent during the Revolutionary War. His risky actions played a pivotal part in American history.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to act bravely and stand up for what is right, even when they are afraid or when the situation seems challenging.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, James faces numerous obstacles and dangers but remains committed to his mission. His perseverance is a key to his success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persisting towards a goal despite difficulties, emphasizing that hard work and determination can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Ethics and making moral choices
Explanation: James Lafayette's role as a spy involved making tough choices, often weighing personal safety against the greater good.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of ethical decision-making and considering the consequences of their actions for themselves and others.
Example Lesson: The power of intelligence and strategic thinking
Explanation: James used his intelligence and cunning to gather and relay information that was crucial for the American victory.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use their intellect and creativity to solve problems and overcome obstacles in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context and its impact
Explanation: The book provides a historical backdrop of the American Revolutionary War, showing how individuals like James Lafayette influenced major events.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand how history is shaped by the actions of individuals and encourage an interest in learning about the past to better understand the present.