When Johnny Went Marching: Young Americans Fight the Civil War

by G. Clifton Wisler

Book Overview

0rion Howe was just thirteen years old when he stole away from his Chicago home and traveled alone to Mississippi to join his father and younger brother's Union regiment. He received a Medal of Honor... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0688165370
• ISBN13: 9780688165376
• Release Date: September 2001
• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
• Length: 128 Pages
• Weight: 1.47 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 8.3" x 10.3"
• Age Range: 10 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 5 and higher

Customer Reviews

Young Soldiers.....

Though both the North and South banned the enlistment of anyone under the age of 18, thousands of boys and some girls as young as ten fought during the Civil War. They came from all walks of life, immigrants, blacks, the poor, and rich, even future president William McKinley, and served as soldiers, drummers, buglers, hospital orderlies, and spies. Many were wounded, imprisoned, died in battle, or of disease, and six even received the Medal of Honor. G. Clifton Wisler has compiled the stories and experiences of 49 of these very young Americans into a riveting and vivid collection. History comes alive in short two or three page chapters, and each account is very personal and poignant, often using diary entries, letters, and postwar recollections if possible, and most include a haunting photograph of each young soldier at the time of his/her service. It is obvious that this book was a labor of love, and Mr Wisler's painstaking research and attention to detail brings these stories to life. A map, extensive chapter notes, glossary, index, and bibliography are included to augment lessons and discussions. Perfect for youngsters 10 and older,When Johnny Went Marching is a masterpiece, and children will be fascinated as they read about soldiers their own age who tried to make a difference.