I have always been a massive history nerd, and Jean Fritz is a large part of that reason. When I discovered her books as a tween on library shelves, I immediately scarfed down EVERYTHING available by her. She made history exciting and believable and even humorous at times in an easy to read way, a way that kids and grown ups alike can enjoy.

This was a well-written, interesting account of Lafayette's life. It was very informative, and contained facts I'd not read elsewhere. He was an amazing man, and his legacy lives on this account which, while written for children, is enjoyable for adults as well.

Lafayette was a spontaneous French man who left his 14 year old bride to find adventure in America fighting for George Washington. He came back to France and his young wife full of the American spirit and tried to influence his own country's leaders to create a democratic government. He wasn't successful in convincing the revolutionaries. They put him in jail. He wasn't able to convince Napoleon, he was too selfish. His story was such an interesting paradox between the two countries. It was fascinating to watch him try so hard to convince people of what a great idea the Americans had in setting up their country. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves America. However, I do not think a child younger than 12 would be able to get through the middle section on the Revolutionary War battles.

For only 77 pages, this book covers a lot of ground.

An easy read and a quick way to learn about Lafayette. Some of the information about him (he named his son George Washington de Lafayette because he adored him so much?!?) astounds me! So cool!

Loved the illustrations and the details about Lafayette's life. As a book for children/students, there were some parts/terms that would be confusing, and could have been explained better. But still a good, informative read!

Very, very nice illustrations.

I have read a few Jean Fritz books lately, and I really enjoy her writing style. I was interested to learn more about Lafayette because I knew next to nothing about him. There was one part in this book that felt like it dragged just a little bit, when Lafayette was being welcomed in various American cities, but overall it was a very interesting book about a very interesting man.

I actually read this on my own - not to Bea - and found it fascinating! I really love the "level" at which she writes history. It is perfect for my old brain I guess! :-)

Although this was written for kids, it was very informative and fun. I had no idea how important Lafayette and the French were to the American Revolution. Jean Fritz is a wonderful children’s historical writer.

America’s favorite fighting Frenchman!

Although it was a bit slow at the start, Why Not, Lafayette? proved to be a worth while read. This lovely little novella gives insight on Lafayette's greatest impacts on history as well as some insight on who he was as a person. It was very interesting, especially the chapters about his involvement in French liberty.
The only times it fell short were when his battles were described. Battles are not as exciting if they are plainly put into words, but Lafayette's actions in later chapters proved to be a delightful read.

Great little book-not too short or too long. Enjoyable to read.