SNOW-STORM IN AUGUST Washington City, Francis Scott Key, and the Forgotten Race Riot of 1835

Most people associate Francis Scott Key with “The Star-Spangled Banner.” SNOW-STORM IN AUGUST offers a different perspective of Key, who was also the City of Washington district attorney, and a staunch defender of slavery. The book reveals Key as a politically ambitious prosecutor who was willing to send an innocent black youth to jail and to do virtually anything to preserve his reputation. As is often the case, current events intervened, including two controversial trials and the 1835 race riot. Peter Jay Fernandez is the ideal selection as the book’s narrator. His measured delivery allows the listener to recognize Key’s strengths and weaknesses. In addition, Fernandez provides each character with a unique presence—especially Andrew Jackson, who helped thwart Key’s efforts—and allows the gripping story to be the focus. D.J.S. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2012]