by Rodman Philbrick
Flap Copy description:
Although he is underage, Homer P. Figg's beloved older brother, Harold, is illegally sold into the Union Army by their ruthless guardian. Now Homer must run away from Pine Swamp, Maine, and his wretched home to find his brother and save him from the war, before it's too late.
In a story filled with adventure, humor, and danger, award-winning novelist Rodman Philbrick tells of the turbulent, passionate times - from rural Maine to the Battle of Gettysburg - in the Civil War. Here is historical fiction at its most engaging, portraying the 1860's through the observant eyes of a backwoods boy willing to stretch the truth to his own advantage.
A master of plot twists and vivid characters, Philbrick sweeps readers into the unpredictable events - both colorful and tragic - of this powerful turning point in American history.
My thoughts:
This historical fiction novel, The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg, won a Newbery Honor Award in 2010. Rodman Philbrick's story includes colorful character development and voice, as well as a plot with unexpected twists and turns. The pace slows a bit in the middle of the text; but the finale - including the Battle of Gettysburg, complete with Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain - is truly wonderful! A great read for all ages, especially those with a love of history.
