In emphasizing the family relationship, Amy Hogeboom has found a fresh approach to the familiar story of Columbus. All through his life Christopher was deeply attached to his brothers—to Diego who later became a priest, and especially to the gay and brilliant Bartholomew who was nearest his age and helped him plan every step of his great Enterprise. In the early days they worked together in their father's woolen shop, later they went on trader's trips together, and when they went into business it was together, with a sign reading: "Columbus Brothers—Map Makers." 

When he returned in triumph after his First Voyage, Columbus asked that his brothers also receive titles of honor and rewards. And in some of the dark days that followed, when he seemed surrounded by enemies, his brothers never failed to give him encouragement and support.

In the life of every great man there can be discovered the influence of someone very dear who believed in his success. In the story of Columbus it was his brothers.

From the dust jacket