WASHINGTON'S CROSSING

On Christmas Day 1776, the fortunes of the American Revolution were at their lowest. Some ninety percent of the Army had been lost since the summer, and many had lost hope. Then, that very evening, Washington crossed the Delaware and defeated the Hessian garrison at Trenton. In the following week he defeated the British at Trenton. This campaign in New Jersey boosted the fortunes of the Army and kept the War of Independence going. Fischer ably describes the unique characteristics of the participants--American, British, and Hessian. He also gives a fine portrayal of Washington, though he could have provided more description of his religious beliefs. Nelson Runger's performance is much in accord with Washington himself: controlled, authoritative, and clear. M.T.F. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]