In this generally accurate and readable collective biography, some of the subjects (Benedict Arnold, John Brown, Alger Hiss, Axis Sally and Tokyo Rose, the Rosenbergs, John Walker, Edward Lee Howard, and Aldrich Ames) may not have been traitors, but all were accused. The profiles are illustrated with small, dark black-and-white photos and reproductions. Bib., ind.

Gr 5-9--An interesting overview that profiles 12 Americans who were accused of and tried for treason. Aaseng begins by describing how the words traitor and treason are emotionally charged and, as often as not, dependent on which side is in power. The book includes Benedict Arnold, John Brown, Alger Hiss, Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, John Walker, and Aldrich Ames. The biographies are written on a fifth or sixth grade reading level, but the content is appealing enough to make this book accessible and interesting to middle school readers. The author presents information about each individual, cites important incidents and anecdotes, and gives readers food for thought by presenting possible motives and reasons for their actions. The black-and-white photographs, paintings, and drawings, while not of excellent quality, do put a human face to the names.--Joan Soulliere, University of Pittsburgh