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The Fifth of March: A Story of the Boston Massacre
“Carefully researched and lovingly written, Rinaldi’s latest presents a girl indentured to John and Abigail Adams during the tense period surrounding the 1770 Massacre. . . . Fortuitously timed, a novel that illuminates a moment from our past that has strong parallels to recent events. Bibliography.”-- Kirkus Reviews
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1993
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1848 people want to read
About the author
Ann Rinaldi
68 books980 followersAnn Rinaldi (b. August 27, 1934, in New York City) is a young adult fiction author. She is best known for her historical fiction, including In My Father's House, The Last Silk Dress, An Acquaintance with Darkness, A Break with Charity, and Hang a Thousand Trees with Ribbons. She has written a total of forty novels, eight of which were listed as notable by the ALA. In 2000, Wolf by the Ears was listed as one the best novels of the preceding twenty-five years, and later of the last one hundred years. She is the most prolific writer for the Great Episode series, a series of historical fiction novels set during the American Colonial era. She also writes for the Dear America series.
Rinaldi currently lives in Somerville, New Jersey, with her husband, Ron, whom she married in 1960. Her career, prior to being an author, was a newspaper columnist. She continued the column, called The Trentonian, through much of her writing career. Her first published novel, Term Paper, was written in 1979. Prior to this, she wrote four unpublished books, which she has called "terrible." She became a grandmother in 1991.
Rinaldi says she got her love of history from her eldest son, who brought her to reenactments. She says that she writes young adult books "because I like to write them."
Rinaldi currently lives in Somerville, New Jersey, with her husband, Ron, whom she married in 1960. Her career, prior to being an author, was a newspaper columnist. She continued the column, called The Trentonian, through much of her writing career. Her first published novel, Term Paper, was written in 1979. Prior to this, she wrote four unpublished books, which she has called "terrible." She became a grandmother in 1991.
Rinaldi says she got her love of history from her eldest son, who brought her to reenactments. She says that she writes young adult books "because I like to write them."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews
November 30, 2017
Reading through my shelves of juvenile books, I chose another Rinaldi historical fiction. I've yet to find a Rinaldi I didn't enjoy. She seems to have researched her topics well and then adds enough realism to plunk the reader, or at least me, down in the midst of the historical situation. This time, I was with the John Adams family as the children's caretaker, Rachel Marsh.
Rachel, at age twelve, learns what liberty is, what it means to be free. She is befriended by the Adams' acquaintance Henry Knox, the bookseller. For years, I've always had a yearn for Knox. Maybe it is the name - he was a descendant of the Scottish Presbyterian John Knox the Reformer from whom we named one of our sons - or maybe it was because he loved books and owned an early American bookstore. Henry Knox helps Rachel to realize what thinking for oneself is, and he does this by guiding her reading and conversations. In three short paragraphs, Rinaldi takes the reader into Knox's bookshop:
I always love a good description. Rinaldi has many, and one that gave me a bit of pause was this:
". . . pulled here by a rope of feelings that I had woven . . . .".
Simple, yes. Nothing spectacular. But what a visible description of invisible things.
Rachel, at age twelve, learns what liberty is, what it means to be free. She is befriended by the Adams' acquaintance Henry Knox, the bookseller. For years, I've always had a yearn for Knox. Maybe it is the name - he was a descendant of the Scottish Presbyterian John Knox the Reformer from whom we named one of our sons - or maybe it was because he loved books and owned an early American bookstore. Henry Knox helps Rachel to realize what thinking for oneself is, and he does this by guiding her reading and conversations. In three short paragraphs, Rinaldi takes the reader into Knox's bookshop:
"Mr. Knox's shop was as wonderful as Mr.s Adams had said. And I saw, the moment I entered, why she had sent me. It had more to do with the way the place made a person feel than anything else. I could never describe it. You would have to be a person who loves books to understand, who loves the way they look and smell. And the quiet that surrounds them. And the way it seeps into your soul.
"A little bell tinkled as I opened the door. The walls were lined with books of all kinds, some with gold lettering on them, some with the bindings almost falling off or carefully stitched back on. Some had the look of ages about them.
"I wandered for a few moments in the aisles, just looking, not paying mind to the people. No one bothered me. No one asked if I had a right to be there. A clock ticked serenely in a corner. A table was in a clearing in the back, on a Persian carpet by a window with small panes. Two men were seated at the table, studying. In another chair, by the window, sat a very pretty young lady, dressed in blue. She was reading. A cat dozed in the window seat in the sun. I could live here, I decided. I felt at home."
I always love a good description. Rinaldi has many, and one that gave me a bit of pause was this:
". . . pulled here by a rope of feelings that I had woven . . . .".
Simple, yes. Nothing spectacular. But what a visible description of invisible things.
August 27, 2011
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first half of the book. 4 stars for the reading. Minus one star for my unresolved questions at the end. Such a sad situation for the British soldiers in Boston. I enjoyed reading about the turmoil in Boston and as people try to "pick their sides" during a time when they were still loyalists. Revolution was not yet being called out on the streets. But, there was a hunger for liberty in Boston.
**Spoiler alter**
The second half the book had "issues" I wish were explained better. Why was it okay for John Adams to defend the soldiers because that was the right thing to do, but not for Rachel, his children's nanny, to bring food to the soldiers. There was nothing morally wrong with her actions, it was all above reproach. And yet, John Adams let her go because of it. That was not adequately resolved in the book. Rachel just takes it as the way things must be. And that is cause for dismissal?
There was never a true resolution to Matthew's character. Was he really what Rachel believed? John Adams accused him (to Rachel) of stealing a woman's coat) and other unseeming things. Was Rachel too in love to see that, or was that gossip and prejudice against the British. I never felt that was resolved in the story.
Why did Rachel leave behind her payment for all of your years of service? Her payment for her years of service was her dowry and the silver coins. She leaves both of those behind as a message to the Adams' family about her integrity? Does leaving most of your earthly possessions behind denote integrity? To me it denotes lunaty. Rachel's last words are “anyone who needed an explanation about what I’ve done, wouldn’t understand”. I obviously am the one who doesn't understand. She is going out into the world, penniless, where life is not too kind on teenage girls, to an uncertain place, leaving her savings for what? To make a point. Her friends in the story understood why, but they didn't bother explaining it adequately to me.
And if Rachel really wanted to stay with the Adams's, why didn't she say so, not just acquiesce.
Content: Clean but for mild language (darns, hecks, gosh, etc.)
**Spoiler alter**
The second half the book had "issues" I wish were explained better. Why was it okay for John Adams to defend the soldiers because that was the right thing to do, but not for Rachel, his children's nanny, to bring food to the soldiers. There was nothing morally wrong with her actions, it was all above reproach. And yet, John Adams let her go because of it. That was not adequately resolved in the book. Rachel just takes it as the way things must be. And that is cause for dismissal?
There was never a true resolution to Matthew's character. Was he really what Rachel believed? John Adams accused him (to Rachel) of stealing a woman's coat) and other unseeming things. Was Rachel too in love to see that, or was that gossip and prejudice against the British. I never felt that was resolved in the story.
Why did Rachel leave behind her payment for all of your years of service? Her payment for her years of service was her dowry and the silver coins. She leaves both of those behind as a message to the Adams' family about her integrity? Does leaving most of your earthly possessions behind denote integrity? To me it denotes lunaty. Rachel's last words are “anyone who needed an explanation about what I’ve done, wouldn’t understand”. I obviously am the one who doesn't understand. She is going out into the world, penniless, where life is not too kind on teenage girls, to an uncertain place, leaving her savings for what? To make a point. Her friends in the story understood why, but they didn't bother explaining it adequately to me.
And if Rachel really wanted to stay with the Adams's, why didn't she say so, not just acquiesce.
Content: Clean but for mild language (darns, hecks, gosh, etc.)
October 21, 2018
Waffling between 2.5 and 3 stars.
It did have one quote that seemed quite Deep to me:
It did have one quote that seemed quite Deep to me:
"I don't know what this liberty thing is all about, Rachel. None of us do, yet. I pray that if we ever achieve it, we will know how to control it. And not let it control us."
Read
July 12, 2017DNF. I love Ann Rinaldi; but this particular novel revolves around an extremely problematic romance (guy claims girl 'owes' him affection, girl feels guilty for setting boundaries), and I just don't feel like putting up with that kind of nonsense right now.
February 24, 2015
This book was very good. I've read one other of Ann Rinaldi's books and enjoyed it immensely as well for her writing style is superb and her story telling amazing although this book was a little slow in the beginning (This is usual though and predictable for a historical fiction book). I really felt like I was with Rachel as she walked through the streets of Boston and by the end of the book I was turning pages so fast to see what happens next I almost got a paper cut. So yeah this book was really good although the one problem I had with it was how the Adam's treated Rachel in the end, by the end of the book I hated them for being rude jerks! I thought it could have ended better but oh well.
January 12, 2023
If I ever find an Ann Rinaldi book warranting less than five stars, I'll let you know.
July 8, 2011
Story of the Boston Massacre through the eyes of Rachel Marsh, who is a servant working for John and Abigail Adams. It's definitely a book geared for a younger reader...not a lot of meat to it but a good story. I thought she brought up some good points about liberty and what it means to be an "American". We don't need anyone..including the government, to "do for us". We can do for ourselves. It seems that many in our country have lost that attitude which makes this book a good one for young adults to read...they can be reminded of the value of independence! I thought the afterward was more interesting than the book. She tells of how she decided to write the book and how she found Rachel Marsh.
July 12, 2015
One of the marks of a really good book for me is when it inspires me to do more reading on the subject matter on my own. This young adult telling of a young indentured girls growth in knowledge and self-understanding did that for me. I come in part from Loyalist ancestors and when I visited Boston the first time and saw the marker for the "Boston Massacre" I didn't believe it was a massacre at all. This book didn't change my opinion on that. but I found it to be a well-researched and well-balanced look at both sides of what happened and gave me a better understanding of the various issues involved.
May 31, 2010
So, this was one of my favorite books when I was younger and when I recently cleaned out my bookshelves I decided I wanted to read it again. It was definitely worth reading again too.
Now that I'm older I understand more of what the book is about; that it's not just about a servant girl who had a friendship with a British solder. And that Rachel asked questions that we all should ask, that myself at 20 am still asking myself.
This is a beautifully written piece of historical fiction that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Now that I'm older I understand more of what the book is about; that it's not just about a servant girl who had a friendship with a British solder. And that Rachel asked questions that we all should ask, that myself at 20 am still asking myself.
This is a beautifully written piece of historical fiction that can be enjoyed by all ages.
May 28, 2014
Rinaldi is a brilliant and creative story-teller...the two stars aren't a reflection of the author, just this story. Maybe 'historical' 'fiction' isn't my cup o tea. I found the protagonist to be completely unbelievable! Her choices, her actions were soooo 21st century, and, I couldn't reconcile that with the time period the story is set. Rinaldi states that the catalyst for this story was the riots in L A in 1992 -- maybe her story should have just been written with that as the setting instead of extrapolating characters from one century with an event several centuries in the past.
March 6, 2016
This was my first book by: Ann Rinaldi, so besides the reference to other books by the author, I agree with this review written by Hannah:
Not my favorite book by this author. Her stories normally have a happier ending and/or more redeeming qualities and fewer suggestive scenes. Enjoyed the perspective and history. This author always does a great job making it personal and this book was no exception. Disappointed with the cursing and rebellion. It was a little heavy on woman's independence/rights and seemed out of place for that time period.
Not my favorite book by this author. Her stories normally have a happier ending and/or more redeeming qualities and fewer suggestive scenes. Enjoyed the perspective and history. This author always does a great job making it personal and this book was no exception. Disappointed with the cursing and rebellion. It was a little heavy on woman's independence/rights and seemed out of place for that time period.
March 5, 2008
I really liked this YA Historical Fiction novel.
I am currently homeschooling my girls and trying to figure out how to inspire them to desire to learn on their own. I appreciated the heroine in this book who had a great desire to 'make something of herself' and determined in her mind that learning and books were the tools to help her do that. She also found a mentor or two to help her along her way.
I plan to read this out loud to my girls next year when we are studying American History.
I am currently homeschooling my girls and trying to figure out how to inspire them to desire to learn on their own. I appreciated the heroine in this book who had a great desire to 'make something of herself' and determined in her mind that learning and books were the tools to help her do that. She also found a mentor or two to help her along her way.
I plan to read this out loud to my girls next year when we are studying American History.
March 31, 2025
I'm honestly a little conflicted about the rating for this one, because there were some things about it that I really liked, but then some things about it that were just not well done, honestly. In the end, I would probably give this 2.5 ⭐ rounded up here to3 .
First, what I liked and what I thought was well executed in the novel:
*The themes and discussions were well thought out, well represented, and well discussed throughout the book without weighing it down and making it heavily didactic. It stays firmly in the realm of YA and doesn't dig too deeply into the topics, but it does examine fairly weighty matters of liberty, independence, education, etc. It also doesn't become propaganda - there's a clear analysis of right and wrong on both sides of the conflict that existed in Boston in 1770, and acknowledgement that it was difficult to determine what was right and what was wrong for those in the thick of it.
*I enjoyed the historic setting of colonial Boston and the real characters that peopled it at the time. The places and the events were almost all historically accurate, which made for fun reading.
As to what I did not think was quite as well executed:
*The characterization was very inconsistent, which lent some frustration to my reading experience. I understand that our MC is a young teenage woman with much to learn during the story and that she is on a process of growth, but her character was just very inconsistent. On one page, she would say one thing, and then completely contradict herself on the next page. While that might be consistent with actual female teenage behavior out in the wild.... it did not make for a cohesive novel.
*I was not feeling the friendship/romance at. all. It just didn't make sense. If it was a romance, it was a terrible one. And as far as friendships go, it was ill-advised. In terms of the larger point the author was trying to make in that storyline, I think it could have been made better in a hundred different ways.
*I did not understand the end at all. It didn't really make sense in the context of the story, and it wasn't laudable behavior at all in my opinion. On the surface, it seemed like a really brave and selfless act, but honestly, it was just stupid.
*There were some anachronisms in speech patterns, and, I think, in some of the things our MC did that would have been completely out of character for a girl in her position at the time.
First, what I liked and what I thought was well executed in the novel:
*The themes and discussions were well thought out, well represented, and well discussed throughout the book without weighing it down and making it heavily didactic. It stays firmly in the realm of YA and doesn't dig too deeply into the topics, but it does examine fairly weighty matters of liberty, independence, education, etc. It also doesn't become propaganda - there's a clear analysis of right and wrong on both sides of the conflict that existed in Boston in 1770, and acknowledgement that it was difficult to determine what was right and what was wrong for those in the thick of it.
*I enjoyed the historic setting of colonial Boston and the real characters that peopled it at the time. The places and the events were almost all historically accurate, which made for fun reading.
As to what I did not think was quite as well executed:
*The characterization was very inconsistent, which lent some frustration to my reading experience. I understand that our MC is a young teenage woman with much to learn during the story and that she is on a process of growth, but her character was just very inconsistent. On one page, she would say one thing, and then completely contradict herself on the next page. While that might be consistent with actual female teenage behavior out in the wild.... it did not make for a cohesive novel.
*I was not feeling the friendship/romance at. all. It just didn't make sense. If it was a romance, it was a terrible one. And as far as friendships go, it was ill-advised. In terms of the larger point the author was trying to make in that storyline, I think it could have been made better in a hundred different ways.
*I did not understand the end at all. It didn't really make sense in the context of the story, and it wasn't laudable behavior at all in my opinion. On the surface, it seemed like a really brave and selfless act, but honestly, it was just stupid.
*There were some anachronisms in speech patterns, and, I think, in some of the things our MC did that would have been completely out of character for a girl in her position at the time.
July 15, 2020
Well Written Book
I really enjoyed this book although I really would probably rated a 4 1/2 for being lighter reading than pure history. It gives you a unique view of the incidence of the Boston massacre from the view of an indentured servant.
It includes many of the main characters of the time but the reality is it’s through John Adams’ family is that she is indentured to and through the Adams’ the girl meets lots of different people and provides alternate perspectives of situations – – in particular the Boston massacre.
For a personal note I just had a tour of Boston a few months ago—so this book really came to life for me.
I really enjoyed this book although I really would probably rated a 4 1/2 for being lighter reading than pure history. It gives you a unique view of the incidence of the Boston massacre from the view of an indentured servant.
It includes many of the main characters of the time but the reality is it’s through John Adams’ family is that she is indentured to and through the Adams’ the girl meets lots of different people and provides alternate perspectives of situations – – in particular the Boston massacre.
For a personal note I just had a tour of Boston a few months ago—so this book really came to life for me.
February 15, 2011
Growing up my favorite author was hands down Ann Rinaldi. I owned probably about a dozen or so of them and I would frequently borrow those that I didn’t own from the school library. After about age 15 I got distracted by other books and really forgot all about this author until a few weeks ago. I was exploring the author’s website for a feature I was doing on YA Historical Fiction and realized that she has still been releasing books, almost every year, and still is. This made me want to take some time to get back to reading those books I loved – this time on audio book.
The Fifth of March is a story of the events in Boston that lead up to the Boston Massacre, the event itself, the trial of those British soldiers, and some of the outcomes of this conflagration. But it is also the story of Rachel dealing with figuring out who she is – does she still see herself as a British American or just a plain American (to use her own words)? It is a really interesting question – when do you start to see yourself as something different? You get to see Rachel really starting to open her eyes to what is happening around her and see how it affects her. I also really loved the sweet, little romance that developed. You really were able to see how this put added stress on a young girl too.
The author does an awesome job at giving the reader a visual layout of Boston. She also has a great ability to convey the drama, hysteria, tension, panic and drive to choose sides that enveloped Boston during that time.
Although this book is written for a primarily high school audience, I enjoyed it immensely. The historical facts and events were not brought down a level and would still be very enjoyable for an adult reader. This is a coming of age story with a teenage narrator – but also consider, people had to grow up a lot faster back then and were encountering situations that many teens wouldn’t be today.
Audiobook Impressions:
I have to say that I didn’t love this narrator. The way she read for the main character of Rachel made the character seem dumb. Having read this in paperback several years ago I had never gotten that impression – a little naïve, yes, but not the way this narrator made me feel about the character. The narrator did do a good job at evoking the feelings of the story and the world the characters were living in – the fear and panic. I think it would have been a more enjoyable listening experience with a different narrator.
3.5 out of 5 stars for the audio.
The Fifth of March is a story of the events in Boston that lead up to the Boston Massacre, the event itself, the trial of those British soldiers, and some of the outcomes of this conflagration. But it is also the story of Rachel dealing with figuring out who she is – does she still see herself as a British American or just a plain American (to use her own words)? It is a really interesting question – when do you start to see yourself as something different? You get to see Rachel really starting to open her eyes to what is happening around her and see how it affects her. I also really loved the sweet, little romance that developed. You really were able to see how this put added stress on a young girl too.
The author does an awesome job at giving the reader a visual layout of Boston. She also has a great ability to convey the drama, hysteria, tension, panic and drive to choose sides that enveloped Boston during that time.
Although this book is written for a primarily high school audience, I enjoyed it immensely. The historical facts and events were not brought down a level and would still be very enjoyable for an adult reader. This is a coming of age story with a teenage narrator – but also consider, people had to grow up a lot faster back then and were encountering situations that many teens wouldn’t be today.
Audiobook Impressions:
I have to say that I didn’t love this narrator. The way she read for the main character of Rachel made the character seem dumb. Having read this in paperback several years ago I had never gotten that impression – a little naïve, yes, but not the way this narrator made me feel about the character. The narrator did do a good job at evoking the feelings of the story and the world the characters were living in – the fear and panic. I think it would have been a more enjoyable listening experience with a different narrator.
3.5 out of 5 stars for the audio.
December 28, 2010
The events surrounding the Boston Massacre as perceived by a maid in the Adams' household whose name was Rachel and is in the process of figuring out who she is and what her values are, and she wants to become. Probably one of Rinaldi's more readable books and she's a bit less heavy handed with the fact dropping than in most of her other books. Not sure I particularly like this character all that much, but I could see it being very appealing to girls who are themselves deeply insecure. Also, the book continually promotes the value of reading, especially for girls from low socioeconomic backgrounds who want improve their lot in life -- always a good thing.
One of the great things about Rinaldi is her final chapter always lets the reader know what is truthful and what is constructed in her books. Rachel apparently was a real girl and is mentioned in the famous letters between John and Abagail, as applying for the position they were offering as a nanny in their household, and even cites the letter. Apparently Rachel lived with them in Boston and left their employ with no comment when they moved back to Braintree. However, Rinaldi admits that the whole story line of her romance is fictional, even if the boy she supposedly had it with was not (i.e., the review by the gentleman complaining that this book is historically incorrect because the Adams never had help in the home therefore bares little weight in the grand scheme of historically inaccurate fiction.) Rinaldi admits that the point is to get students, specifically young girls, interested in history, and that any sugar she includes to make the medicine go down should be forgiven.
One of the great things about Rinaldi is her final chapter always lets the reader know what is truthful and what is constructed in her books. Rachel apparently was a real girl and is mentioned in the famous letters between John and Abagail, as applying for the position they were offering as a nanny in their household, and even cites the letter. Apparently Rachel lived with them in Boston and left their employ with no comment when they moved back to Braintree. However, Rinaldi admits that the whole story line of her romance is fictional, even if the boy she supposedly had it with was not (i.e., the review by the gentleman complaining that this book is historically incorrect because the Adams never had help in the home therefore bares little weight in the grand scheme of historically inaccurate fiction.) Rinaldi admits that the point is to get students, specifically young girls, interested in history, and that any sugar she includes to make the medicine go down should be forgiven.
March 11, 2019
Read this entire review here: YA REVIEW: THE FIFTH OF MARCH – SEARCHING FOR PEACE AND LOVE IN A TIME OF WAR
Review by Clarissa Hadge
Overall Rating = 4.5; Romance Rating = 4
In The Fifth of March, Rinaldi gives Rachel a strong voice and allows her protagonist to question where her loyalties lie. I appreciated this, as far too often with similar narratives, the protagonist is staunchly American; no qualms about it. This portrayal seems much more realistic. As Rachel sees what is happening around her, she takes it all in and must decide where she fits into the events. The historical accuracy of the narrative is excellent and will intrigue readers looking into the events of the Boston Massacre for the first time, or readers familiar with the events and seeking a fictional narrative.
Rachel and Matthew’s romance is sprinkled into the text enough so that it doesn’t overwhelm the main plot of the Massacre. The characters are a good juxtaposition for two teenagers thrust in a violent world that doesn’t always present itself in a straightforward manner. The overall pace of the book is a bit slow in the scenes where the action is not taking place, but there is more than enough within the pages to keep the readers interested in moving forward.
Read this entire review and others (especially if you love old-fashioned chivalrous romance) at: THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW
Review by Clarissa Hadge
Overall Rating = 4.5; Romance Rating = 4
In The Fifth of March, Rinaldi gives Rachel a strong voice and allows her protagonist to question where her loyalties lie. I appreciated this, as far too often with similar narratives, the protagonist is staunchly American; no qualms about it. This portrayal seems much more realistic. As Rachel sees what is happening around her, she takes it all in and must decide where she fits into the events. The historical accuracy of the narrative is excellent and will intrigue readers looking into the events of the Boston Massacre for the first time, or readers familiar with the events and seeking a fictional narrative.
Rachel and Matthew’s romance is sprinkled into the text enough so that it doesn’t overwhelm the main plot of the Massacre. The characters are a good juxtaposition for two teenagers thrust in a violent world that doesn’t always present itself in a straightforward manner. The overall pace of the book is a bit slow in the scenes where the action is not taking place, but there is more than enough within the pages to keep the readers interested in moving forward.
Read this entire review and others (especially if you love old-fashioned chivalrous romance) at: THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW
March 21, 2012
Photina Haumschilt
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rachel Marsh is an indentured servant to John and Abigail Adams in Boston, Massachusetts. Her job in the Adams' house is to care for their children. On her off days she yearns to better herself and starts going to the local bookstore to read books and learn. As the British soldiers arrive in Boston tensions start to become more apparent and people choose sides. Rachel is torn as she befriends a British soldier, Matthew Kilroy. Her Loyalties and own beliefs are tried as the tensions get worse result in the Boston Massacre, where Kilroy plays a significant role. Rachel soon sees how her actions affect her and those around her as she continues to see Kilroy and work in the Adams' household. Rinadli does an excellent job of telling the readers about the events leading up to, during, and following the Boston Massacre as well as weaving a story of friendships, beliefs, and adventure. Those who liked this book will also enjoy Rinaldi's Time Enough for Drums.
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rachel Marsh is an indentured servant to John and Abigail Adams in Boston, Massachusetts. Her job in the Adams' house is to care for their children. On her off days she yearns to better herself and starts going to the local bookstore to read books and learn. As the British soldiers arrive in Boston tensions start to become more apparent and people choose sides. Rachel is torn as she befriends a British soldier, Matthew Kilroy. Her Loyalties and own beliefs are tried as the tensions get worse result in the Boston Massacre, where Kilroy plays a significant role. Rachel soon sees how her actions affect her and those around her as she continues to see Kilroy and work in the Adams' household. Rinadli does an excellent job of telling the readers about the events leading up to, during, and following the Boston Massacre as well as weaving a story of friendships, beliefs, and adventure. Those who liked this book will also enjoy Rinaldi's Time Enough for Drums.
January 20, 2012
I read this because I was a fan of Rinaldi's book Acquaintance with Darkness. I didn't think I would enjoy a historical fiction book, but I really liked reading it!
It started off kinda boring, but as the first couple of chapters went on, it became a great book with a well-written plot.
I noticed that not all of the historical information in here was correct. But most of the time, it was. (Rinaldi wrote "Townsend Acts" instead of "Townshend Acts") The parts about the Boston Massacre were very accurate with what actually happened.
I disliked the ending. I wanted it to continue on because Rinaldi had so many untied ends. Maybe she wanted the readers to guess for ourselves. But the only thing was that the story ended with such a broad range of things unexplained, that anything could have happened.
I gave this book 4 stars mostly because of the ending which seemed unfinished. The writing style of this book was immaculate.
It started off kinda boring, but as the first couple of chapters went on, it became a great book with a well-written plot.
I noticed that not all of the historical information in here was correct. But most of the time, it was. (Rinaldi wrote "Townsend Acts" instead of "Townshend Acts") The parts about the Boston Massacre were very accurate with what actually happened.
I disliked the ending. I wanted it to continue on because Rinaldi had so many untied ends. Maybe she wanted the readers to guess for ourselves. But the only thing was that the story ended with such a broad range of things unexplained, that anything could have happened.
I gave this book 4 stars mostly because of the ending which seemed unfinished. The writing style of this book was immaculate.
October 17, 2016
I thought this book was a well written story about the Indentured servant of John and Abigail Adams. This is a strong example of descriptive detail. The struggling relationship between Rachel Marsh and Matthew Kilroy is a way to relate to the audience. Overall, I thought this book was an interesting story of the Boston Massacre from the eyes of a young girl.
October 27, 2016
I thought that this book by Ann Rinaldi, was very good. It also had tons of accurate facts, and I was able to learn from this book. The only thing negative thing I would say about this book, is that I wish the ending was different.
June 16, 2020
I might try to read this in another few years but I was not able to get through this book. I think that is mostly due to me not really liking historical fiction all that much. I just wasn't as interested as I thought I might. To sum it up, I'll try to read this book again in a few years.
June 6, 2016
Cataloging summary: Fourteen-year old Rachel Marsh, an indentured servant in the Boston household of John and Abigail Adams, is caught up in the colonists 19 unrest that eventually escalates into the massacre of March 5, 1770.
One of the strengths of this book is the melding of historical facts with fictional ideas. Ann Rinaldi is known for her works of historical fiction, and this is one of them. Rinaldi does extensive research for her novels and then interprets the events to make her own story. In the author 19s note, she explains some of the facts behind the fiction (Matthew Kilroy was a British soldier assigned sentry duty, who worked at the Ropewalk Works, and was involved in the massacre) and how she discovered her main character, Rachel Marsh 14who in fact was an indentured servant to the Adams family and a girl 1Cthat wants a place, 1D according to a letter written by John Adams. Rinaldi picked up this line and used it as a central theme when imagining Rachel 19s life and background.
Which leads me to another strength of the book: its positive themes and ideas. One of the themes, as mentioned before, is about trying to find a place in the world in which you feel you belong. In the beginning, Rachel is in search of that place 14her mother had died and uncle was greedy, manipulative and not loving at all. By going to work for the Adamses, living in the uproarious Boston, and facing some difficult decisions, she did, at the end, finally find her place 14in America, as an American. There are positive messages about the power of books, education, and bettering oneself as a person. There are themes of friendship and loyalty and doing what you believe in 14what you believe is right (no matter the negative consequences that may come about). For Rachel, she wants to be respectable and doesn 19t give in to Matthew 19s wanton demands/feelings 14because if she does, she could end up in the same unmarried 1Ccircumstances 1D that her mother was. Yet she still remains loyal in her friendship to Matthew, visiting him in the jail 14because that is what she felt was right, not matter if it did mean appearing less respectable in John Adams 19s eyes and ultimately causing her to lose her job with them.
There is also the overlying theme of liberty 14doing for oneself and not relying on others to provide for you. The colonists 19 desired it, and so did Rachel. When her servitude for the Adamses was up, Rachel did not take the dowry provided by them; she left only with the material possessions she came with, yet that which could never be taken away from her 14education, pride, friendships, and a stronger sense of self.
Rinaldi does make the reader feel like they 19ve been transported to 1770 by writing in the language of the time. It 1Cmayhap 1D be confusing for some readers to figure out, but it is still effective and adds even more to this coming of age story, I think. While some stretches in the book lack much action (which some readers might interpret as 'boring'), Rinaldi certainly did succeed to 1Ckindle [my mind], like the agitators kindled the flame of the American Revolution. 1D (p. 330) Fellow historical fiction fans should enjoy it.
3Q - readable without serious defects; 2P - for the YA reader with a special interest in the subject
One of the strengths of this book is the melding of historical facts with fictional ideas. Ann Rinaldi is known for her works of historical fiction, and this is one of them. Rinaldi does extensive research for her novels and then interprets the events to make her own story. In the author 19s note, she explains some of the facts behind the fiction (Matthew Kilroy was a British soldier assigned sentry duty, who worked at the Ropewalk Works, and was involved in the massacre) and how she discovered her main character, Rachel Marsh 14who in fact was an indentured servant to the Adams family and a girl 1Cthat wants a place, 1D according to a letter written by John Adams. Rinaldi picked up this line and used it as a central theme when imagining Rachel 19s life and background.
Which leads me to another strength of the book: its positive themes and ideas. One of the themes, as mentioned before, is about trying to find a place in the world in which you feel you belong. In the beginning, Rachel is in search of that place 14her mother had died and uncle was greedy, manipulative and not loving at all. By going to work for the Adamses, living in the uproarious Boston, and facing some difficult decisions, she did, at the end, finally find her place 14in America, as an American. There are positive messages about the power of books, education, and bettering oneself as a person. There are themes of friendship and loyalty and doing what you believe in 14what you believe is right (no matter the negative consequences that may come about). For Rachel, she wants to be respectable and doesn 19t give in to Matthew 19s wanton demands/feelings 14because if she does, she could end up in the same unmarried 1Ccircumstances 1D that her mother was. Yet she still remains loyal in her friendship to Matthew, visiting him in the jail 14because that is what she felt was right, not matter if it did mean appearing less respectable in John Adams 19s eyes and ultimately causing her to lose her job with them.
There is also the overlying theme of liberty 14doing for oneself and not relying on others to provide for you. The colonists 19 desired it, and so did Rachel. When her servitude for the Adamses was up, Rachel did not take the dowry provided by them; she left only with the material possessions she came with, yet that which could never be taken away from her 14education, pride, friendships, and a stronger sense of self.
Rinaldi does make the reader feel like they 19ve been transported to 1770 by writing in the language of the time. It 1Cmayhap 1D be confusing for some readers to figure out, but it is still effective and adds even more to this coming of age story, I think. While some stretches in the book lack much action (which some readers might interpret as 'boring'), Rinaldi certainly did succeed to 1Ckindle [my mind], like the agitators kindled the flame of the American Revolution. 1D (p. 330) Fellow historical fiction fans should enjoy it.
3Q - readable without serious defects; 2P - for the YA reader with a special interest in the subject
April 5, 2014
In the historical fiction novel The Fifth of March by Ann Rinaldi, the protagonist is a fourteen-year-old indentured servant girl named Rachel Marsh who works for John and Abigail Adams in Boston, Massachusetts during the early 1770’s. Rachel falls in love with Matthew Kilroy, a British private in the 29th regiment, and witnesses the Boston Massacre and see’s eight British soldier’s firing at the colonist for self defense. One of these soldiers was Matthew and he shot Sam Gray in the head, the eight British soldiers and Captain Preston is charged with murder and put to jail. John Adam takes the case and the verdict of the trial is all innocent except Matthew Kilroy and Hugh Montgomery, the two get minor punishment and all the soldiers are sent to England. Matthew promises to write to Rachel from England and Rachel moves on to another household after the Adam’s move to Braintree. A theme of this story is love because Rachel and Matthew fall in love. They risk getting caught just to see each other on their days from work.
My favorite character from this novel was the protagonist, Rachel Marsh. I like the way she changes throughout the novel. In the beginning, Rachel is very naïve, shy and hardworking and does not know what is going on in Boston. As the story progress, Rachel seeks to educate herself and reads many books; she gains a lot of confidence and learns how to speak her mind. Rachel also starts to understand her emotions and feelings. When she gets to know Matthew, Rachel says, “ Oh, I was becoming stable of my feelings”(111). Rachel also is very brave and determined because she risks her job and reputation just to see Matthew in jail. When the Adam’s move to Braintree they didn’t need Rachel anymore and they reward her with a dowry chest but she leaves it there with a note to show the kind of person she is. When Rachel talks to Uncle Ed, she says, “He did. I had a whole linen dowry. And a dowry chest. And household items aplenty. And hard silver. ‘What happened to it, girl?’ Left it there”(316). Rachel learns to make her own decisions and doesn’t let other makes them for her. I reacted so strongly to this character because the way she grew and learned many new things. I think the author intended this reaction because the book was mainly about how she grows as a person and the obstacles she faces throughout the novel.
I thought this was a really good novel because of the theme and messages portrayed throughout the novel. The author used fiction in order to teach the reader about what really happened in the book. I would recommend this novel to teenagers that want to learn about the Boston Massacre. It had all the right information about the Massacre just like I had learned it in US History class. The author also adds suspense and many feeling into the novel that makes the reader more interested and determined to find out what is going to happen next. This novel was an easy read and did not take a long time to read. I strongly recommend this novel to any person that likes to learn about the Boston Massacres with fictional characters tied into the plot.
January 30, 2018
There were things about this I really liked and things I wasn't so fond of. She does a great job showing the rising tensions in Boston in the years leading up to the Revolution, and how events progressed from being something only the politically minded really cared about to something everyone had to have a stake in. She also did a good job, I thought, of showing both sides of the story - that the Bostonians resented the British troops' presence and they signified, and the troops were overworked, underfed and underpaid, living amongst a hostile people.
What I didn't like very much was Rachel's relationship with Matthew. At the beginning it made sense. I could see how she could make friends with a sentry posted outside her house, offering food and even going on walks together. But their relationship seemed inconsistent. Rachel talked about how she thought about him constantly and had romantic feelings for him, but told him that all she felt for him was friendship. I understood not wanting to damage her reputation by going too far physically, but instead of saying that she lied to him.
Matthew was also incredibly annoying to me. He kept pushing for more physical affection from Rachel and then saying that he had to fight because he was all "pent-up" because she wouldn't sleep with him. It seemed like textbook abusive behavior to me. And later after the Massacre, Rachel says that she feels guilty because Matthew did what he did because of her refusing him! There didn't seem to be any resolution either. Multiple people tell Rachel that Matthew has a reputation for being wild and she doesn't believe them, and it's never made clear what is the truth. And instead of standing up for herself, she throws her life away visiting him in prison out of guilt.
The last thing that bothered me was the end where Rachel leaves behind her dowry to prove to the Adamses that she can maker her own way in the world. I suppose I could have understood this (even if I might not have agreed) if the dowry was simply a present from Mrs. Adams, but it was part of the contract when Rachel was indentured to them. It was her payment for years of work - her only payment, besides room and board - and she left it all behind so she could start over with nothing. I thought it bordered on nonsensical.
I did like that in the author's note it was revealed that Rachel Marsh was a real person who worked for the Adamses at the time! We may never know the details of her story but I think living and working in the house she did at that time, a lot of the people it shows her interacting with were probably a part of her life, so that's pretty cool.
What I didn't like very much was Rachel's relationship with Matthew. At the beginning it made sense. I could see how she could make friends with a sentry posted outside her house, offering food and even going on walks together. But their relationship seemed inconsistent. Rachel talked about how she thought about him constantly and had romantic feelings for him, but told him that all she felt for him was friendship. I understood not wanting to damage her reputation by going too far physically, but instead of saying that she lied to him.
Matthew was also incredibly annoying to me. He kept pushing for more physical affection from Rachel and then saying that he had to fight because he was all "pent-up" because she wouldn't sleep with him. It seemed like textbook abusive behavior to me. And later after the Massacre, Rachel says that she feels guilty because Matthew did what he did because of her refusing him! There didn't seem to be any resolution either. Multiple people tell Rachel that Matthew has a reputation for being wild and she doesn't believe them, and it's never made clear what is the truth. And instead of standing up for herself, she throws her life away visiting him in prison out of guilt.
The last thing that bothered me was the end where Rachel leaves behind her dowry to prove to the Adamses that she can maker her own way in the world. I suppose I could have understood this (even if I might not have agreed) if the dowry was simply a present from Mrs. Adams, but it was part of the contract when Rachel was indentured to them. It was her payment for years of work - her only payment, besides room and board - and she left it all behind so she could start over with nothing. I thought it bordered on nonsensical.
I did like that in the author's note it was revealed that Rachel Marsh was a real person who worked for the Adamses at the time! We may never know the details of her story but I think living and working in the house she did at that time, a lot of the people it shows her interacting with were probably a part of her life, so that's pretty cool.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2020
I do love a bit of history told from a perspective on the sidelines, or in the background, especially if the perspective is a woman/girl. This book ticked all those boxes, and gave me reason to ponder on the job of a hired girl in the home of John and Abigail Adams. It also showed the humanity and complicated relationships between British loyalists, American Revolutionists, soldiers, and those who were coming of age in this time. It is written for a YA audience and is well done.
June 26, 2012
On March 5, 1770, one of the most unspeakable acts to ever occur on American soil at that time took place, inciting fires that would later contribute to the American Revolution. That day, the tensions that had been growing between the colonists and the British soldiers exploded, leaving behind many wounded and five dead. Imagine being a young indentured servant in the crowd of onlookers, rooted to your place by the horror of what was unfolding before you. Rachel Marsh, Rinaldi's heroine, recounts that very experience and the circumstances leading up to and following it in her compelling tale about life in Boston in the years surrounding the incident. Rachel, bound as a nursemaid to the family of John Adams, had a unique vantage point. Able to mix with Boston's Tory upper crust, anti-Royalist commoners who challenge her to learn the meaning of being a "plain American" (as opposed to a British American) and a British soldier who awakens her sympathy when he tells her his story, Rachel finds herself torn between loyalties and questioning everything she's believed about patriotism and loyalty to the crown. She feels inadequate and insignificant due to her low beginnings and her family's somewhat scandalous history but is encouraged by John and Abigail Adams as well as several of her colonist friends to better herself through education. Rachel's subsequent pursuit of knowledge and wisdom provide her with the strength she needs as she is immersed in the turmoil and controversy after the massacre and is faced with several hard choices regarding her future and her allegiance.
For such a grim subject, Ms. Rinaldi writes a surprisingly edifying novel that is clearly well-researched but not dry or boring. Though written for young adults, it's deep enough to satisfy more mature readers. Rinaldi does an excellent job at evoking the tense emotional air of the period and helping the reader understand how complicated the decision to be an American or a Royalist must have been for the common colonist. Rachel is a complex character whose development throughout the novel is interesting to watch. She's a bit naive and over-trusting, but those are only minor flaws in her personality. The supporting cast, especially John and Abigail Adams and Matthew Kilroy, are not quite as fully developed but are still compelling in themselves. All in all, an excellent book.
September 29, 2012
The Fifth of March: A Story of the Boston Massacre is an excellently researched tale about the Boston Massacre. The main character, Rachel Marsh, was a nursemaid in John Adams' household for his many children. In this novel, she turns from a young teenager with a romanticized version of the world into a young woman with character and sense on her shoulders. She underwent this process by becoming friends with revolutionaries, such as Henry Knox, and British soldiers.
One aspect that I loved about this book was that Rinaldi captured different views people could hold about the situation in 1770's Boston. I loved the metamorphosis of characters' views as they pondered what liberty actually meant. Was it personal liberty? Political liberty? Liberty within a household? Friendship liberties? The definition of liberty was a clear theme throughout the book.
I also loved the views that she gave the soldiers in the novel. It shed some light on other feelings and viewpoints I had not yet considered. For example, the redcoats believed that they were supposed to be viewed as noble heroes because they were protecting their country. That was why a few had signed to be a party of the British army. In Boston they were not treated as such, and it turned out to be a grievous disappointment.
There were also some historical tidbits that I learned from reading the novel. I have a better understanding of how the relationship between the cousins of John and Sam Adams was characterized. I learned small facts about Abigail Adams' family, such as her grandfather was the found of a New England province. I also learned a touch more about Adams' defense of the soldiers after the Boston Massacre. Rinaldi picked out certain aspects and quotations to use that were appropriate and enlightening.
Overall, I would recommend this book to any American. It helps to illustrate the principles of what our country was founded upon. It also is an entertaining tale about how a girl becomes an educated woman. After putting the book down, I find myself yearning to find out what happens to Rebecca Marsh.
One aspect that I loved about this book was that Rinaldi captured different views people could hold about the situation in 1770's Boston. I loved the metamorphosis of characters' views as they pondered what liberty actually meant. Was it personal liberty? Political liberty? Liberty within a household? Friendship liberties? The definition of liberty was a clear theme throughout the book.
I also loved the views that she gave the soldiers in the novel. It shed some light on other feelings and viewpoints I had not yet considered. For example, the redcoats believed that they were supposed to be viewed as noble heroes because they were protecting their country. That was why a few had signed to be a party of the British army. In Boston they were not treated as such, and it turned out to be a grievous disappointment.
There were also some historical tidbits that I learned from reading the novel. I have a better understanding of how the relationship between the cousins of John and Sam Adams was characterized. I learned small facts about Abigail Adams' family, such as her grandfather was the found of a New England province. I also learned a touch more about Adams' defense of the soldiers after the Boston Massacre. Rinaldi picked out certain aspects and quotations to use that were appropriate and enlightening.
Overall, I would recommend this book to any American. It helps to illustrate the principles of what our country was founded upon. It also is an entertaining tale about how a girl becomes an educated woman. After putting the book down, I find myself yearning to find out what happens to Rebecca Marsh.
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June 1, 2018Have you ever wondered what life must've been like before the Boston Massacre? The Fifth of March by Ann Rinaldi tells a story about an indentured servant, Rachel Marsh, and her perspectives of the events before, during, and after the Boston Massacre. From Rachel's perspective, she introduces many different characters and many historical people, such as John Adams, Abigail Adams, and their two children (for now) Nabby and Johnnie.
Rachel, a very curious young girl that wanted to get out in the real world, moved in with the Adams family in Boston at 14 years old, which was when she began to understand the changes going on in the colonies. She was an indentured servant for the family, mostly helping to take care of the children. While the British soldiers were invading Boston, her connection with Mr. Adams got stronger because of his willingness to help Rachel understand the political world and the changes going on in Massachusetts. Mr. Adams, along with Uncle Eb and Henry Knox were all part of helping her understand the world, by either getting her to read books or having conversations. Matthew Kilroy, a soldier that got sent from England became really close with Rachel, even though her close friend, Jane, told her to be careful, just like many other people told her too. One night, a massacre occurred. Rachel decided to go explore the situation but in a very short amount of time, everything got chaotic, with dead people on the ground, and British soldiers with weapons. With the Adams family now knowing that she was present at the massacre, they have to make a hard decision that will possibly make or break her future.
My favorite part of the book was when Rachel started to get into some difficult situations and it was interesting to see how she dealt with them. For example, she was present at the Boston Massacre, which led to some conflicts with close friends and the way Rachel handled them was admirable and inspiring. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction. This is a great book because it definitely shows different perspectives of the story and it gives accurate information about what happened in the 1700’s.
Rachel, a very curious young girl that wanted to get out in the real world, moved in with the Adams family in Boston at 14 years old, which was when she began to understand the changes going on in the colonies. She was an indentured servant for the family, mostly helping to take care of the children. While the British soldiers were invading Boston, her connection with Mr. Adams got stronger because of his willingness to help Rachel understand the political world and the changes going on in Massachusetts. Mr. Adams, along with Uncle Eb and Henry Knox were all part of helping her understand the world, by either getting her to read books or having conversations. Matthew Kilroy, a soldier that got sent from England became really close with Rachel, even though her close friend, Jane, told her to be careful, just like many other people told her too. One night, a massacre occurred. Rachel decided to go explore the situation but in a very short amount of time, everything got chaotic, with dead people on the ground, and British soldiers with weapons. With the Adams family now knowing that she was present at the massacre, they have to make a hard decision that will possibly make or break her future.
My favorite part of the book was when Rachel started to get into some difficult situations and it was interesting to see how she dealt with them. For example, she was present at the Boston Massacre, which led to some conflicts with close friends and the way Rachel handled them was admirable and inspiring. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction. This is a great book because it definitely shows different perspectives of the story and it gives accurate information about what happened in the 1700’s.
June 1, 2018
Rachel Marsh is trying to find her place in life, but it doesn't make things any easier with
events such as the Boston massacre going on around herThe Fifth of March is a historical
fiction book by Ann Rinaldi that tells the story of a young girl facing a dangerous and exciting
life. The first few chapters in the book talk about Rachel, the main character, and her
relationships with the Adams family, her friend Jane, and her Uncle Eb. Many events in the
book lead up to thrilling moments for Rachel, such as flirting and nearly getting a boyfriend,
witnessing the Boston massacre live, and even visiting a jail and a trial ! It must be becoming
very hard to live as Rachel Marsh, as she will meet all kinds of challenges, friends, and foes
along the way to success.
Over the span of the book, tensions rise between American colonists and British soldiers. Rachel is also stressed, as she is making hard choices and decisions throughout the book, such as deciding what it means to be a plain American. In the beginning, she doesn't even know what American means! But she meets some very important people that help her make this important discovery. Namely, John and Abigail Adams, who show that being a plain American is basing decisions off of fact and truths, not emotions. Thanks to the Adamses, other influences such as Jane or Henry Knox, and a bit of deduction for herself, Rachel is able to make a smart conclusion of what it is to be American. Although this helps her make many important decisions throughout the rest of her life, there was one choice that had to come from the heart, to help a friend, or to keep loyalty to her family.
My favorite part of the book was Chris Snider’s funeral because it acted as a martyr for the colonists. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fiction book, but also wants to learn a lot about history. I would rate this book three out of five stars on the Nico Stars Scale. This book was interesting from start to finish, but it left a lot to be desired.
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