Great Women of the Civil War

Children's Literature

Part of the "We the People" series which, "examines key events that have shaped the course of the nation," this text belongs to a subgroup of titles that explore the many roles of famous, and not-so-famous, women of the time. Each "Great Women" book follows a similar format beginning with background material about the time and then progressing to chapters about the activities of specific women during the era. Each book is written at a 3rd- to 5th-grade reading level with many graphics and relatively few words per page. This makes this series particularly helpful for struggling readers who are studying the regular fifth-grade social studies curriculum of United States' history. Each book contains numerous research tools, such as a glossary, timeline, additional facts and summaries on the people mentioned. Additional print and internet resources are also included. This particular title features both white and African-American women who took part in the Civil War on both sides, often in surprising ways. Famous women like Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom's Cabin; Sojourner Truth, abolitionist; Harriet Tubman, celebrated for leading many slaves to freedom using the Underground Railroad; and Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, are discussed in detail. There is also a chapter about female spies that explores the activities of lesser-known women during this conflict. These many compelling short portraits may excite students and encourage they to learn more about these often-overlooked heroines of the time, and the book will complement any classroom library focused on United States history. 2005, Compass Point Books, Ages 8 to 12.
—Sheryl O'Sullivan

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-Four enticing, well-documented titles that highlight aspects of our nation's history. Each one is appealing in its presentation, with large print and accessible information written in an engaging style. Revolution and Civil War focus primarily on women who played pivotal roles during these volatile periods. Biographical information is juxtaposed nicely alongside the political aspects of the wars. Minutemen pays homage to those individuals who fought bravely and heroically at Lexington and Concord, while Witch Trials delves into the hysteria that held captive the town of Salem in 1692. Full-color and black-and-white reproductions, photographs, and maps enhance the texts. The lists of important people are a welcome addition, as are the lists for further reading and Web sites. Fine additions for reports and for recreational reading.-Janet Gillen, Great Neck Public Library, NY Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.