Anita Silvey -- Children's and Young Adult Book Expert
 I'll Pass for Your Comrade |
I'll Pass for Your ComradeThe Civil War has been studied, written about, even sung about for generations. Most people recognize the names of Jefferson Davis. Ulysses S. Grant, and Robert E Lee. But few have heard of Sarah Emma Edmonds, Rosetta Wakeman, or Mary Galloway. They were among the hundreds of women who assumed male identities, put on uniforms, enlisted in the Union or Confederate Army, and went into battle alongside their male comrades. The book explores the fascinating secret world of women soldiers; who they were, why they went to war, how they managed their masquerade. A few left memoirs or letters. Newspaper stories, pension records, and regimental accounts provided additional information, as did the writings of male soldiers. I'll Pass for Your Comrade invites young readers from 10-14 to view the Civil War from an uncommon perspective and explores an often overlooked aspect of our history. Reviews: "This book takes a unique aspect of history to the next level for public consumption. It focuses on women who disguised themselves as men and fought on both sides of the war. Silvey presents a well-researched book that anyone interested in the war would find fascinating." Civil War News "Representing more than 30 years of the author's passionate interest in the Civil War, Silvey's is an engrossing, intelligently wrought account of 19th-century feminists making their mark." Starred review, Publishers Weekly "Silvey's first book for young people explores a little-known chapter of history with numerous primary source references and thought-provoking commentary. Why did these women fight? How did they pass as men? How did they hold up to the daily life of a soldier and the heat of the battlefield?" Horn Book "Well researched and clearly written, this attractive book illuminates an aspect of the Civil War that is often overlooked." Booklist "Intriguing stories told in a well-researched book. Another highlight is the use of archival photographs and reproductions." School Library Journal |
|
