So much is not commonly known about spying during the War for Independence. It is exciting to see more people taking an interest in it now. Nathan Hale is certainly a legend, but how much do we really know about this man and what he did? This book is well written and is full of information to bring history to life. ( )

Nathan Hale is a very informative book. It is full of information that is not known by most people. There was much more to Nathan Hale than a school teacher who became a soldier and died as a spy. In modern times it is difficult to understand the magnitude of what Nathan Hale had done. Spying was frowned upon, and was seen as a disgrace to the family of the spy. Hale risked death and family disgrace in order to help America's cause. William Phelps does a good job of bringing Nathan Hale out of the fog of historical legend, and into the sun of historical fact. Phelps clearly reveres Hale, but he is still able to show his shortcomings. ( )

William Phelps biography of Nathan Hale is a very enjoyable read. The book is well researched, but I did find the heavy use of quotes a little distracting from the story. ( )

"I regret that I have but one life to give to my country."

Nathan Hale speaks this famous line and is then hung at the gallows by the British General Howe as a spy for the American rebellion.

I thought the legend was interesting enough that I took a review copy from publisher to learn more about America's first spy. What I learned is that the legend is much more interesting than the truth.

Hale was used a martyr for the American rebellion, becoming synonymous with patriotism, freedom, and the fight for liberty. He was a well-learned man, handsome, and good with the ladies.

As much as Mr. Phelps tries to bring Hale to life and fill in his background, there just is not much there. The book is thin and spends as much time filling in stories about the Revolutionary War and other people in Hale's life as it does telling Hale's life.

It turns out that Hale was not a very good spy. He was caught on first mission. It also turns out that he probably did not speak that famous line.

Maybe I'll stick with the legend. ( )

Phelps has made Nathan Hale's life and death digestible to today's average reader. It is clear that he has done extensive research on the matter, but he doesn't bog you down in details. He provides just enough to give the reader context without being overwhelming. That should make this book good for the new/reluctant reader and possibly whet their appetite to study the American Revolution in greater detail. A good starter book. ( )