
In the heat of the War of 1812, two fifteen‑year‑old friends from the Chesapeake bay set out on a daring mission that would thrust them into the heart of the conflict. With a modest sloop they name the Avenger, they turn their love for country and a personal vendetta into a bold plan to strike back at the British. Their youthful energy and quick wits lead them into secret meetings, covert messages, and a night‑time raid that places them alongside seasoned officers and a determined commodore.
Through vivid, first‑person narration, the story captures the chaos of Washington’s burning and the raw emotions of boys thrust into adult danger. As they navigate treacherous waters and shifting loyalties, the tale offers a gripping glimpse of bravery, camaraderie, and the fierce drive to protect their homes. Listeners will feel the rush of the era’s turbulent seas and the heartbeat of young patriots daring to change history.
Full title
Commodore Barney's Young Spies A Boy's Story of the Burning of the City of Washington
Language
en
Duration
~8 hours (484K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Edwards, Odessa Paige Turner and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)
Release date
2010-06-04
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1848–1912
Best known for lively historical adventures and stories for young readers, this prolific American writer published under the pen name James Otis and helped shape late-19th-century children's fiction. His books often mix action, patriotism, and everyday courage in a way that still feels inviting.
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