Benedict Arnold: Historical Insights and Challenges

Steve Shanking introduces himself and expresses gratitude for being a finalist in the AUSA nonfiction award. He discusses the importance of his book on Benedict Arnold, sharing the challenges he faced in getting Arnold into textbooks due to the character's controversial nature. Steve explains Arnold's appeal as an action hero and his journey from writing fiction to creating a nonfiction book for teens. He concludes with appreciation for the recognition of his work.

What event is Steve Sheinkin expressing gratitude for in the introduction?

• Winning the AUSA nonfiction award

• Being a finalist for the AUSA nonfiction award

• Publishing his first book

• Receiving a lifetime achievement award

Why does Steve Sheinkin consider 'The Notorious Benedict Arnold' his favorite book?

• He faced challenges in getting Arnold's story into textbooks

• It was a gift from a famous author

• It was his first published book

• It was a bestseller

What was a major obstacle Sheinkin faced when trying to include Arnold in textbooks?

• Lack of historical evidence

• Arnold was not a well-known figure

• Textbooks were already too long

• Arnold's story made people nervous

What makes Benedict Arnold a compelling historical figure according to Sheinkin?

• He was a famous inventor

• He was an original American action hero

• He was a renowned artist

• He was a successful politician

What was the initial form Sheinkin considered for telling Arnold's story?

• A short story

• A documentary

• A novel

• A podcast

Who helped Sheinkin decide to write a nonfiction book for teens?

• His friends

• A fellow author

• His family

• Editor Peter Lang

What realization did Sheinkin have while riding the subway home?

• He should write a nonfiction book for kids

• He should abandon the project

• He should collaborate with another author

• He should write a novel

What genre did Sheinkin ultimately choose for his book on Benedict Arnold?

• Science fiction

• Nonfiction for teens

• Fantasy

• Historical fiction

What does Sheinkin hope to achieve with his book on Benedict Arnold?

• To win more awards

• To make history fun and educational for kids

• To become a bestseller

• To create a movie adaptation

How does Sheinkin describe the narrative style of his book?

• A series of interviews

• A collection of essays

• A straight ahead action adventure

• A complex and detailed analysis