About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking deeper questions about American history that go beyond standard textbook dates and names. It is perfect for the student who feels bored by rote memorization and instead craves the human stories, odd inventions, and secret missions that make the past feel alive and relevant. This high-interest guide explores the U.S. Civil War through the lens of 'secrets,' covering everything from innovative weaponry to the unsung heroes who served as spies. While it touches on the gravity of war and the struggle for justice, it focuses heavily on resilience and the ingenuity of people facing extreme circumstances. It is an ideal bridge for middle-grade readers who are ready to handle the complexities of our nation's history but benefit from a fast-paced, visually engaging format.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book describes battlefield conditions, including brief mentions of amputations and disease in field hospitals. It acknowledges the brutal realities of slavery by quoting slave narratives about whippings and family separations, though these descriptions are not graphic. The text also mentions the high casualty rates of battles like Gettysburg. The approach is direct and secular, presenting these as historical facts. While the resolution is hopeful in terms of national unity and the end of slavery, it remains realistic about the cost of the conflict.
