Behind Rebel Lines

Recently, my children and I learned quite a bit about the work women did to help the war effort during the Civil War.  Quite a few women dressed up as men, and joined the army.  Other women were couriers or spies.

Behind Rebel Lines: The Incredible Story of Emma Edmonds, Civil War Spy by Seymour Reit details one such woman.

And she was pretty amazing.  Emma Edmonds joined the Union Army as Franklin Thomas.  She wanted to be a nurse on the battle front – a job reserved for men.  As she worked in the army hospital, she was suddenly called upon to help find information about the enemy’s positions.  After a very successful mission, Emma (rather Franklin) headed back to the hospital.

But Franklin had impressed the army leaders with his skill, so they sent him back behind enemy lines time and time again, to uncover information for the Union Army.  His disguises were always inventive, and he faced many dangers on his missions.

Both my 14-year-old daughter and my 10-year-old son enjoyed this book greatly.  In fact, I had to wait in line to read it!

Highly recommended for ages 10 an up.