About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is beginning to question the complexity of loyalty, especially when personal ethics clash with family or community expectations. It is a sophisticated choice for a middle schooler who is moving beyond simple hero-versus-villain narratives and starting to explore the grey areas of history and human nature. Set in a divided Maryland town during the Civil War, the story follows twelve-year-old Amelia as she navigates the blurred lines between Union and Confederate sympathies. The book addresses themes of courage, the heavy burden of keeping secrets, and the power of a single person to protect their community. It is a realistic and thought-provoking historical novel that invites readers to consider what they would sacrifice to prevent a tragedy, making it an excellent bridge for children developing their own moral compass.
