Among the Camps

Among the Camps : Young People's Story of the War, by Thomas Nelson Page
(Reprinted by Sprinkle Publications, 1995)
Ages 6+

This is a sequel to Two Little Confederates and is very similar. It does not continue with the same family, but is actually a collection of four different stories all of young people during the War Between the States. In each story the children show spunk. Like the previous book, this one gives a view of life during this time.

Probably my favorite of these four stories is the first one where a father who is in the Confederate army manages to visit his family on Christmas and promises specific gifts for his children the following year. During the year, the family’s plantation ends up behind enemy lines. The story of the father’s persistence to uphold his promise and the faith and perseverance of his children is powerful.

This is another fun story with good lessons and historical awareness.

Iron Scouts of the Confederacy

Iron Scouts Of The Confederacy, by Lee McGiffin
(Christian Liberty Press, 1993), pb., 157 pp.
Ages 6+

This was a fun book which also introduces the reader to some key leaders in the Confederate cavalry who are often overlooked today. According to the foreword, this book “chronicles the true adventures of two teenage brothers who grew up during the War Between the States as orphans and soldiers.” The fact that the main characters are boys themselves always adds to the interest level of my boys. Then, the fact that these are true stories adds even more to the interest.

The main characters, Gant and Ben Fane, boys aged 14 & 16, have been left orphans due to the war and are left in charge of the family farm. Eventually they end up involved in the war travelling from their home in Alabama to Virginia to serve under General Wade Hampton. Along the way they meet and serve under John Mosby as well. Hampton and Mosby were key figures both during and after the war though they are often forgotten today. I appreciated the opportunity to introduce them to my boys in this way. The story follows the adventures, sufferings and lessons Gant and Ben encounter through the war. Nobility, courage, character, perseverance, and loyalty are encouraged in the book.

We had a great time reading this book and commend it to you.