Subject

African Americans -- History -- To 1863 -- Juvenile fiction Books

Best books

Alice Turner Curtis

A Yankee Girl at Shiloh

"A Yankee Girl at Shiloh" by Alice Turner Curtis is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the American Civil War, it follows the adventures of Berenice "Berry" Arnold, a young girl from Vermont who, alongside her family, moves to Tennessee for her father's health. The narrative paints a vivid picture of Berry's life in a wooden cabin as she faces the challenges of war, friendship, and bravery in a time of conflict. At the start of this story, we meet Berry, who is full of energy and excitement as she experiences her first significant snowfall in Tennessee. The opening chapters introduce us to her life and her relationship with her parents while hinting at the dangers that encroach due to the looming Civil War. As Berry embarks on daily adventures, she encounters a young runaway slave named Lily and makes a crucial decision to help her, showcasing her spirited nature and compassion. The early interactions set up themes of friendship, courage, and the impact of war on the lives of ordinary people, inviting readers to engage with Berry's journey as she grows and navigates the complexities of her world.

Alice Turner Curtis

A Yankee Girl at Antietam

"A Yankee Girl at Antietam" by Alice Turner Curtis is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the experiences of a young girl named Roxana Delfield, known as Roxy, during the tumultuous period of the Civil War as she navigates her friendships and ideals while living in Maryland. The story is likely set in the summer of 1862 and explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the impact of war on personal lives. The opening of the story introduces Roxy, who runs down a path from her grandmother’s farm to meet her friend Polly Lawrence, emphasizing their friendship and the cultural divide between Northern and Southern girls during the Civil War. As they interact, Roxy grapples with her identity as a "Yankee" and the tensions inherent in her friendship with a Southern girl. When Roxy encounters Confederate soldiers and a runaway Union soldier, her innocence clashes with the realities of war, setting the stage for her internal struggles and the adventures to come. The opening establishes a historical backdrop that influences the girls' lives and showcases Roxy's spirited character as she makes her choices amidst the chaos surrounding her.

Recently surfaced classics