BNN Television

Press Coverage
September 2004

Literary Limelight Spotlights Local Author

Children's book author Ben Edwards recently appeared as a guest on BNN Television's Literary Limelight hosted by Augusta Alban. The live half-hour program features conversations with creative individuals in the fields of writing, publishing, teaching, history and the arts.

Ben discussed his book One April in Boston (Spyglass Books, 2000) which conveys the tale of his early Boston ancestors and their connection to the Sons of Liberty and Paul Revere. The book is written for children ages 10-13 but can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is based on years of research into the Edwards family history, was produced in paperback in 2000, and released on audio CD in 2001.

Ben mentioned that he started his research for the book with only a few clues. He brought his biggest clue into the studio with him to share with viewers - the 1812 Edwards family Bible. Family records written in that Bible, and a newspaper clipping about a WWI soldier tucked inside, first sparked Ben's interest at the age of ten.

On his research journey, Ben discovered treasured family artifacts including paintings of his earliest ancestors, and furniture they once owned. He also located the original Edwards family Bible from 1708 containing family records written in the hand of his first ancestor to come to Boston!

Ben noted that, "One April in Boston begins in April 1775, and concludes in the present day." In the story, ten-year-old Ben Edwards (1765-1808), the author's direct ancestor, believes he can glimpse the future through his grandfather's spyglass. Readers learn of Ben's goals for the future and the plan he sets in motion to achieve them. They experience all the exciting events that lead up to the American Revolution and learn how the family's "Gift of the Spyglass" was passed on from generation to generation.

Later in the story readers meet 10-year-old Philip Edwards who, according to family legend, had the spyglass passed on to him in 1905. Ben notes, "I first learned about Phil through a newspaper clipping kept in the 1812 Bible. Research into his life was the foundation for the second half of the book." Philip Edwards fought in France in WWI as a member of Boston's famed Yankee Division. At the conclusion of the story, readers learn what became of Phil and where the family spyglass can be found today.

Children's Book Spurs New Walking Tour

Prior to Ben's appearance on Literary Limelight, host Augusta Alban attended one of the tours he offers through his new business Walking Tours of Historic Boston. She recommended it highly to viewers, especially those with children. The two-hour tour begins at Boston Common and meanders to the North End, covering 14 historic sites. Along the way, Ben relates fascinating information about Boston's history including tales of his own family's very personal connection.

Toward the end of the show, Ben shared some of the historic items he carries with him on the tour. These included original newspapers printed in colonial Boston between 1769 and 1805. He also noted that families taking the tour receive a free copy of the One April in Boston audio book.

For further information, or to book a tour, Ben Edwards can be reached at 617-670-1888, ext. 1. His website address is www.walkingboston.com.

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