Guts & Glory: The American Civil War - by Ben Thompson (Paperback)

About the Book

Originally published in hardcover in 2014 by Little, Brown and Company.

Book Synopsis

History comes alive for kids like no textbook can in this epic account of the American Civil War that's perfect for history buffs and reluctant readers!

From courageous cavalry rides deep into enemy territory to harrowing covert missions undertaken by spies and soldiers, the events of the American Civil War were filled with daring figures and amazing feats. This exhilarating overview covers the biggest battles as well as captivating lesser-known moments to entertain kids with unbelievable (and totally true) tales of one of America's most fascinating conflicts.

History buff, Civil War reenactor, and popular blogger Ben Thompson uses his extensive knowledge and vivid storytelling style to bring the Civil War to life in this first book in a thrilling new series featuring incredible people, events, and civilizations. Get ready to learn just how awesome history can be!

Review Quotes

Praise for Guts & Glory: The American Revolution:
"Thompson's books are a meaty delight. Digestible chapters are packed with info, one-page bios hit the highlights of their subject's lives, and sidebars full of interesting tidbits are all part of the appeal of the nonfiction Guts & Glory series.... A very satisfying read that even adults will find useful."--Booklist

"Action-packed.... Thompson adopts an urgent and sometimes humorous tone that conveys infectious enthusiasm.... A rousing introduction to this defining conflict that makes the history appealing and relatable." --Publishers Weekly

"An entertaining overview.... What brings these events to life, particularly for reluctant readers, is Thompson's spirited, conversational narration.... Should keep students engaged."
--Booklist

"The book's greatest strength is its colloquial storytelling.... Thompson's passion for his subject is infectious.... An easy, breezy series opener that should help create a few new history buffs."--Kirkus Reviews

"Thompson displays a solid knowledge of the Civil War.... He ably covers major battles, campaigns, and figures...mixing informational passages and fact boxes with colorful action sequences."--School Library Journal

Praise for Guts & Glory: The American Civil War:
A 2015 International Literacy Association Teachers' ChoiceA 2015 National Parenting Publications Silver Winner
An Amazon Best Book of the Month

About the Author

Ben Thompson is the author of Guts & Glory: The American Civil War, Guts & Glory: The Vikings, Guts & Glory: World War II, and Guts & Glory: The American Revolution. For more than ten years, he has been producing humorous, history-related material, including articles for publications such as Military Times and for organizations like the American Mustache Institute. Ben is named after Benjamin Franklin, but this hasn't bestowed him with any supernatural knowledge of the American Revolution. He had to research it the old-fashioned way. He invites you to visit his website at gutsandgloryhistory.com.