This is a great read-aloud chapter book for those kids ready to hear more than they can read. The text flows smooothly so reading it aloud is easy. No he said, she said text commonly found in easier chapter books.My son loves the series on TV but we don't always get to see it and a lot of the story line is missed so this is helping to fill in the gaps. And while I agree, it is 21st century characters, it still does bring history to life especially for the younger grades. I think the grade level of 5-8 is high. I think that age group would be bored with this. Although the writing is at that level which is making it enjoyable for me to read.I highly recommend it as a read aloud with grades K-3. It is a great introduction to the American Revolution filled with enough action and suspense to keep my 5yr asking for one more chapter please???