Johnny Tremain
Summary
Johnny Tremain, a historical novel by Esther Forbes published in 1943, is a beloved classic of children's literature set against the backdrop of the American Revolution. The book, which won the 1944 Newbery Medal, follows the coming-of-age story of a young silversmith's apprentice in Boston as he becomes involved with key figures and events leading up to the war. Renowned for its vivid portrayal of colonial America and its enduring themes of friendship, sacrifice, and patriotism, Johnny Tremain has remained a staple in American classrooms for generations. In 1957, Walt Disney Pictures adapted the novel into a film of the same name, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Plot
Set in Boston during the lead-up to the American Revolution, Johnny Tremain follows the story of a talented 14-year-old silversmith apprentice. Johnny's life takes a drastic turn when his hand is badly burned in an accident, leaving him unable to continue his trade. Forced to find new work, he becomes a messenger for a Whig newspaper and befriends Rab, a fellow apprentice who introduces him to the brewing political tensions in the city.
As Johnny becomes more involved with the rebel cause, he participates in significant historical events like the Boston Tea Party. The novel depicts the increasing conflict between the colonists and British authorities, culminating in the outbreak of war. Throughout these tumultuous times, Johnny matures and develops new relationships, including a deepening friendship with Cilla, a girl he had previously been expected to marry.
The story reaches its climax as the battles of Lexington and Concord unfold. Johnny's friend Rab is mortally wounded in the fighting, passing his musket on to Johnny before dying. The novel concludes with Johnny agreeing to undergo surgery to repair his injured hand, symbolizing his commitment to join the armed struggle for independence.
Themes
• Coming of age and personal growth
• Patriotism and the American Revolution
• Freedom and independence
• Sacrifice and duty
• Social class and status in colonial America
• Friendship and loyalty
• Overcoming adversity and disability
Setting
Set in Boston during the tumultuous years leading up to the American Revolution, Johnny Tremain vividly portrays the tensions and conflicts of the era. The story unfolds against the backdrop of rising unrest between the American colonies and British rule, with key events like the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Lexington serving as pivotal moments in both the plot and history.
The novel primarily takes place in Boston, a hub of revolutionary activity. Readers are transported to the bustling streets, busy wharves, and clandestine meeting places where Patriots plotted their resistance. From silversmith shops to newspaper offices, the story offers a glimpse into various aspects of colonial urban life, painting a rich picture of 18th-century Boston.
Beyond the city limits, the narrative occasionally ventures into the surrounding Massachusetts countryside. The contrast between urban Boston and rural New England adds depth to the setting, highlighting the widespread nature of revolutionary sentiment. As tensions escalate, the story's geographical scope expands, mirroring the growing conflict that would soon engulf the colonies.
Characters
• Johnny Tremain: The 14-year-old protagonist, a talented but prideful silversmith apprentice whose hand is badly burned, forcing him to find a new trade.
• Rab Silsbee: Johnny's mature and brave friend who introduces him to revolutionary politics and joins the Minutemen.
• Priscilla “Cilla” Lapham: A young girl initially arranged to marry Johnny, who becomes his close friend and fellow Whig supporter.
• Ephraim Lapham: The elderly silversmith who is Johnny's first master.
• Mrs. Lapham: Ephraim's daughter-in-law who runs the household and later marries Mr. Tweedie.
• Isannah “Izzy” Lapham: Cilla's beautiful but frail younger sister who becomes Lavinia Lyte's protégé.
• Jonathan Lyte: A wealthy Boston merchant and Johnny's great-uncle, who accuses Johnny of theft.
• Lavinia Lyte: Jonathan Lyte's beautiful daughter who takes an interest in Isannah.
• Dove: A rival apprentice who causes Johnny's hand injury out of jealousy.
• Samuel Adams: A key historical figure and leader of the revolutionary forces in Boston.
• John Hancock: A wealthy merchant and Whig leader whose silver order leads to Johnny's accident.
• Paul Revere: The renowned silversmith and revolutionary figure known for his midnight ride.
Quick facts
• The novel won the 1944 Newbery Medal for “the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children".
• It was estimated to be the 16th best-selling children's paperback book in the United States as of 2001.
• Walt Disney adapted the book into a film in 1957, also titled Johnny Tremain.
• Author Esther Forbes was primarily known as a historian before writing this novel.
• The book was written in 1943, during World War II, which likely influenced its themes of patriotism and sacrifice.
• Forbes extensively researched 18th century Boston to ensure historical accuracy in the novel.
• The character of Rab Silsbee was partially inspired by Forbes' own brother.
• Several real historical figures appear as characters in the book, including Paul Revere and John Hancock.
• The novel's detailed descriptions of silversmithing have been praised for their accuracy.
• Despite being over 75 years old, the book remains a popular choice for middle school curricula studying the American Revolution.
About the author
Esther Forbes
Esther Forbes, born in 1891 in Massachusetts, was an acclaimed American novelist and historian. Her family's deep roots in American history, including a connection to Revolutionary figure Sam Adams, influenced her passion for historical writing. Despite unremarkable academic performance, Forbes developed her craft at various institutions before joining Houghton Mifflin as a manuscript reader.
Forbes's literary career took off with her debut novel O Genteel Lady! in 1926. Her marriage to Albert L. Hoskins Jr. ended in divorce in 1933, partly due to his disapproval of her writing career. Undeterred, Forbes continued to produce notable works, including her Pulitzer Prize-winning biography Paul Revere and the World He Lived In (1942). Her research for this book inspired her most famous novel, Johnny Tremain (1943), which earned her the prestigious Newbery Medal.
Throughout her career, Forbes demonstrated a keen ability to blend historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Her works often focused on colonial and Revolutionary-era America, bringing historical figures and events to life for readers of all ages. Forbes's contributions to literature extended beyond her novels, as she also produced pictorial essays and continued to research American history well into her later years.
Forbes's literary achievements garnered numerous accolades, including an honorary doctorate from Clark University and election as the first woman member of the American Antiquarian Society. Her legacy lives on through her enduring works, particularly Johnny Tremain, which remains a classic of children's literature. Forbes passed away in 1967, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to educate and inspire readers about America's past.