Ben Comee : $b A tale of Rogers's Rangers, 1758-59
"Ben Comee" by M. J. Canavan is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the life and experiences of Ben Comee, starting from his origins in Lexington in the mid-18th century, as tensions grow in the lead-up to the American Revolutionary War. Through Ben's story, the book explores themes of youth, adventure, and the harsh realities of frontier life against the backdrop of early colonial America and the conflicts with French and Native American forces. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Ben Comee, who recounts his childhood in Lexington in 1737, detailing the village's culture and the historical events surrounding it. We learn about his family background, including tales of his great-grandfather's struggles and early conflicts with Native Americans. The opening chapters provide glimpses into Ben's friendships and experiences growing up, such as school life and the joys and challenges of trapping muskrats, showcasing the everyday life of a young boy on the brink of becoming a man amidst the looming dangers of war. As Ben becomes more embroiled in the conflicts of his time, readers are set up for an exploration of his eventual participation in the Rangers and the adventures that lie ahead.