About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with feelings of powerlessness or wondering if their small contributions can actually impact a big, intimidating world. This story is an ideal tool for children who feel overlooked because of their age, providing a historical mirror for their own desire to be taken seriously and to serve a purpose greater than themselves. It follows fourteen year old Orion Howe, who joins the Union Army as a drummer boy during the Civil War, specifically the brutal Siege of Vicksburg. While the setting is a battlefield, the emotional heart of the book is about duty, resilience, and the transition from childhood innocence to adult responsibility. It is a slim, accessible chapter book that models incredible bravery and perseverance through the eyes of a relatable young protagonist. It is appropriate for middle grade readers who are ready to engage with the realities of history without being overwhelmed by graphic details, offering a stirring example of how courage often looks like doing one's job even when afraid.
