Mary Downing Hahn’s many acclaimed novels include such beloved ghost stories as Wait Till Helen Comes, Deep and Dark and Dangerous, and Took. A former librarian, she has received more than fifty child-voted state awards for her work. She lives in Columbia, Maryland, with a cat named Nixi.

"A hard-hitting Civil War novel . . . honest grapplings with complex issues . . . will win readers' interest and sympathy from the outset."
—Publishers Weekly

"Vivid and accurate portrayal of the period . . . strong setting . . . entertaining and thought-provoking . . . a strong adventure . . . that resonates with universal themes."
—Horn Book

“A memorable journey in the voice of a young boy whom readers will care about, a first-rate story, and an essential addition to Civil War collections.”
—Kirkus Reviews

"Wonderfully written story peopled by believable, three-dimensional characters . . . fine storytelling and characterization hook readers from the onset . . . an excellent choice."
—School Library Journal

"Brings readers up close . . . the action is fast and furious, and kids will be caught up in the story."
—Booklist

"Even if the fiction shelves are drooping with middle-grade Civil War novels, find room to squeeze in one more."
—Bulletin

"Well-written . . . Reluctant younger teens might find this book an easy, enjoyable read."
—VOYA