Latham’s biography, a classic tale of an American adventure, deservedly won the Newbery Medal for 1956. Set in the period just after the American Revolution, the book captures the spirit of excitement, discovery, and independence of the era and the new nation. Bowditch epitomizes this stage in history, the American ideal of creating himself, and the passion and earnestness of the scientist and discoverer. The book’s combination of summary and concrete detail enables young people to see the causes and effects of attitude and learning, of caring mentors and loving friends. Thus, the book inspires and motivates young readers and serves as a model of effective juvenile literature for writers, teachers, and students. Carry On, Mr. Bowditch, although written for young people, can be enjoyed by adults, students of history, readers of biography, and those who appreciate fine literature.