"The bloodiest battle in American history is under way . . .
It's 1863, and Thomas and his little sister, Birdie, have fled the farm where they were born and raised as slaves. Following the North Star, looking for freedom, they soon cross paths with a Union soldier. Everything changes: Corporal Henry Green brings Thomas and Birdie back to his regiment, and suddenly it feels like they've found a new home. Best of all, they don't have to find their way north alone-they're marching with the army.
But then orders come through: The men are called to battle in Pennsylvania. Thomas has made it so far . . . but does he have what it takes to survive Gettysburg?"--from the publisher
112 pages 978-0545459365 Ages 8-12
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Thomas ran, but not fast enough. He turned and saw a rebel soldier running straight for him. He aimed his rifle at Thomas. No! Thomas couldn’t die here! Boom! Thomas’ chest seemed to shatter like glass. He jerked back, and fell onto the blood-soaked grass.
Thomas and his little sister have fled the Virginia farm where they have been slaves all their lives. While running away they encounter a Union soldier being threatened by Confederate soldiers and aid him. They are then welcomed into the army as it marches north toward a small town in Pennsylvania called Gettysburg. During the heat of battle, Thomas is badly wounded and his survival is a miracle. Another well researched entry in Lauren Tarshis’ I survived series, this book could stand alone, but readers will be requesting the other titles which are just the right length and pace for reluctant readers.
ISBN: 0545459362 89p. Grades 3-6
Recommended by Alice Cyphers, Librarian, Pennsylvania USA
