Written by Karen Blumenthal
This book tells the story of the Tommy gun, built in 1918 by John Thompson as a lightweight automatic rifle to be used by American soldiers. However, it came along too late for mass distribution during WWI. This gun, that was originally created for the Army, became popular on US streets with gangsters and others. The book looks at the history of this weapon and finding the balance between individual freedoms and gun control legislation. There are lots of interesting photos and illustrations. The story is well told and will appeal to readers interested in the topic.
Review by Susan Booth, Churchill Jr. High Media Center
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 stars)
Interest Level: Jr. High – High School
Tommy: the Gun that Changed America
Written by Karen Blumenthal
Roaring Brook Press
232 pages
Release Date: June 30, 2015
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
Thanks for your review.