Star-Spangled: The Story of a Flag, a Battle, and the American Anthem

Tim Grove

may 2020 · Abrams

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The inspiring story behind the national anthem and the American flag comes alive in this “page-turning narrative [with] generous archival illustrations” (Kirkus, starred review).



“O say can you see” begins one of the most recognizable songs in the US. Originally a poem by Francis Scott Key, the national anthem tells the story of the American flag rising high above a fort after a night of intense battle during the War of 1812. But there is much more to the story than what is sung at ball games.

What was this battle about? Whose bombs were bursting, and why were rockets glaring? Who sewed those broad stripes and bright stars? Why were free black soldiers fighting on both sides? Who was Francis Scott Key anyway, and how did he have such a close view?

An illustrated history for young readers, Star-Spangled tells the whole story from the perspectives of different key figures—both American and British—of this obscure but important battle. The book includes an author’s note, a timeline, a glossary, endnotes, a bibliography, and an index.

A Kirkus Best Book of 2020

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Tim Grove has written several books for young readers, including First Flight Around the World, a YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction finalist. He was formerly chief of museum learning at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC. Visit timgrove.net.