A Soldier's Secret: The Incredible True Story of Sarah Edmonds, a Civil War Hero

By Marissa Moss

Book Overview

Historical fiction at its best, this novel by bestselling author Marissa Moss tells the story of Sarah Emma Edmonds, who masqueraded as a man named Frank Thompson during the Civil War. Among her many adventures, she was a nurse on the battlefield and a spy for the Union Army, and was captured by (and escaped from) the Confederates. The novel is narrated by Sarah, offering readers an in-depth look not only at the Civil War but also at her journey to self-discovery as she grapples with living a lie and falling in love with one of her fellow soldiers. Using historical materials to build the foundation of the story, Moss has crafted a captivating novel for the YA audience. The book includes a Civil War timeline, archival photos, a glossary of names, and a detailed note on sources. Praise for A Soldier's Secret STARRED REVIEWS "A female Civil War soldier is brought alive for readers...Moss convincingly but never gratuitously portrays the gore, horror and boredom of war. An intimate look at a soldier's life from a compelling, historical perspective." -- Kirkus Reviews , starred review "A captivating piece of YA historical fiction." -- Publishers Weekly , starred review "Moss combines fiction with biography in this compelling account...Many battles are graphically described, and the novel is crammed with atmosphere and detail." -- Bay Area News Group "Whether a valiant soldier or angel of mercy, Sarah is a brave and loyal historical figure, well deserving of readers' attention." -- School Library Journal "Moss' novel offers a fascinating, first-person portrait." -- Booklist "The novel is well-written, vividly capturing the drama of Edmonds' story as well as larger wartime realities." -- Library Media Connection

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1419704273
• ISBN13: 9781419704277
• Release Date: September 2012
• Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 6.0" x 8.8"
• Age Range: 13 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 8 and higher