A Ballad of the Civil War - (Trophy Chapter Books (Paperback)) by Mary Stolz (Paperback)

About the Book

Twin brothers, sons of a plantation owner, share everything--except their different beliefs about slavery. As the political tensions rise in the South, they are caught between their passions for their causes and their love for one another. When the Civil War begins, the twins both go to war--to fight each other. Mary Stolz captures the spirit of the times in this emotionally-charged story of two brothers growing irrevocably apart.

Book Synopsis

From Newbery Honor-winning author Mary Stoltz comes a poignant and realistic story of brother pitted against brother during the Civil War. This chapter book is an excellent choice to share during homeschooling, in particular for children ages 6 to 8 who are ready to read independently.

"A good choice for introducing historical fiction."--School Library Journal

Tom Rigby didn't think that anything could ever come between him and his twin, Jack. But things begin to change when Tom learns that they are not allowed to play with their friend Aaron anymore because he's a slave. Tom is upset, but Jack doesn't seem to care. All Jack cares about is playing soldier.

Eleven years later, when war breaks out, Jack joins the Confederation army. But Tom can't bring himself to fight for a cause he doesn't believe in--slavery. So Tom rides north to join the Union army--even though he knows he may one day have to face his brother on the battlefield.

From the Back Cover

A Brother's WarTom Rigby didn't think that anything could ever come between him and his twin, Jack. But things begin to change when Tom learns that they are not allowed to play with their friend Aaron anymore because he's a slave. Tom is upset, but Jack doesn't seem to care. All Jack cares about is playing soldier.
Eleven years later, when war breaks out, Jack joins the Confederation army. But Tom can't bring himself to fight for a cause he doesn't believe in -- slavery. So Tom rides north to join the Union army -- even though he knows he may one day have to face his brother on the battlefield.

Review Quotes

"Realistic and poignantly drawn....A good choice for introducing historical fiction."--" School Library Journal