The Fifth of March Book Review
Ann Rinaldi’s The Fifth of March centers on fourteen-year-old Rachel Marsh, who works as a servant for John and Abigail Adams in 1770s Boston. Rachel’s sole living relative is her unpleasant Uncle Eb, a merchant dealing with Tories. Rachel has lost her parents and lives under her uncle’s constant reminders of her dependency. She has a friend named Jane, another servant in Boston, who is much more involved in the Revolutionary cause, something Rachel both admires and fears could lead to trouble.
The city of Boston is on edge, and Rachel is unsure about the unfolding events. When Uncle Eb demands that she spy on John Adams, Rachel takes a stand and refuses. This marks a turning point, making her question whether to remain neutral or support the Patriots. John Adams learns of Eb’s request, and upon Rachel’s confession, he praises her loyalty, which makes Rachel realize the potential consequences of her defiance.
Rachel yearns for education and, with Abigail’s encouragement, visits Henry Knox, a local bookseller. Through Henry, she explores new intellectual horizons, reading about philosophy and politics, and they form a close friendship.
As British soldiers begin to occupy the city, one named Matthew Kilroy is stationed outside the Adams household. Initially wary, Rachel eventually befriends Matthew, bringing him food secretly despite the disapproval of other servants and Abigail Adams. Their friendship develops slowly into a courtship, complicating Rachel’s feelings about the growing revolutionary tensions and her emerging romantic affection.
Boston’s citizens are increasingly agitated, and following a riot in the North End that results in the death of a friend, the city is on the brink of violence. When Jane convinces Rachel to accompany her to the Custom House, they witness what becomes the Boston Massacre, with Matthew present among the crowd.
Rinaldi gives Rachel a compelling voice as she struggles with her loyalties. Unlike typical narratives where protagonists are firmly pro-American, Rachel’s uncertainty feels more realistic. The novel’s historical accuracy will fascinate both newcomers to the period and those already familiar with the Boston Massacre. Rachel and Matthew’s romance is integrated delicately without overshadowing the main plot. Although some scenes progress slowly, the book overall maintains enough intrigue to keep readers engaged.
The Fifth of March could be adapted into a compelling television mini-series, akin to the Sons of Liberty series on the History Channel. For the cast, Willa Holland could portray Rachel, capturing her strength and inner conflict, while George MacKay might play Matthew, balancing his frustration with the war and his softer moments with Rachel.
