The following version of the book was used to create this study guide: Sheinkin, Steve. The Notorious Benedict Arnold. Holtzbrinck Publishing, New York, NY, 10010. 2010. Kindle AZW file.

Author Steve Sheinkin examined the life of Benedict Arnold, beginning with his daredevil tendencies as a young child. Arnold craved attention, and he took any opportunity to show off in order to gain that attention. His father married a wealthy widow and built a thriving business. Arnold was sent away to boarding school but had to drop out when his father's drinking and business failures put the family in debt. Arnold lost two of his three sisters at a very young age. For a brief time, he was an apprentice at an apothecary before leaving to join the military. He returned home when his mother became sick. Later, Arnold opened a store of his own, married, and had a family. When his wife died, Arnold's sister Hannah took over caring for his sons.

Arnold immediately joined the American military when tensions rose between America and Britain. He pushed to raid a British stronghold called Fort Ticonderoga, but America really was not ready for Arnold's victory. Over the coming months, Arnold began to lead large segments of America's army. He soon proved himself to be a brilliant military tactician. He was able to inspire the men under his command even when faced with terrible situations. He was brave, leading his men into battle rather than commanding from a secure point far from the fighting. He often clashed with other officers who did not see things his way.

Arnold was wounded twice, including one wound that led to a deformed leg and a limp when he walked. After the early stages of his recovery, he met a young socialite named Peggy Shippen. They married and had a son. Arnold faced much public criticism, including those who felt he had misused his military connections and authority for personal gain. Sheinkin wrote that there was no single event that led to Arnold's decision to betray America. Instead, it was likely a series of events with the public criticism and lack of approval being major factors. Additionally, Arnold spent a lot of his personal money on his war efforts. He craved a wealthy lifestyle, including nice houses, clothes, and parties. His deal with the British included payment for the information he provided.

Arnold worked directly with a British officer named John Andre. Andre was talented and longed to climb the military ranks. When the time came for a face-to-face meeting with Arnold, Andre insisted on going personally. He made a series of mistakes during and after that meeting, leading directly to his capture. Once he was captured, Arnold's plan was revealed to the Americans, and Arnold fled to the British military in New York. Arnold had expected the British people to consider him a hero, but that did not happen. He thought Americans would appreciate his efforts to win the war, but that did not happen either. He moved to Britain where he was not very well liked and never launched a successful business. He died from a series of health issues at age 60.