I've recently read two historical fiction novels relating to the Civil War that I enjoyed very much. Here are two quick recommendations for the 4th to 8th grade set.
The first, Ghost Soldier, by Elaine Marie Alphin, offers a peak into the past through the experience of our young protagonist who meets a ghost while visiting an area full of Civil War era battle sites. The ghost has unfinished business and, with some persistent hanging about, convinces the living to help out. Alexander, the adolescent who can see the ghost, has his own problems keeping him busy; his mother left three years ago and his father is ready to move on and remarry. Alex isn't so keen on the idea and gets overwhelmed with all the changes he's facing, plus a ghost pestering him to be his hands in the living world isn't helping much, either!
The second, Iron Thunder, by Avi, takes place in the throes of the Civil War. Readers see the construction of a new kind of ship, an ironclad, through the eyes of a thirteen year old boy who has taken a job on its construction site after his father dies in battle, fighting for the Union. Tom takes the job reluctantly, knowing his family needs the money but also harboring some resentment toward the Union because of his father's death. His uncertain loyalty is tested by a stranger claiming to want to help Tom out, but really wanting information for the Confederacy. Tom ends up having a very important role in the implementation of the ironclad's mission, and learns where his loyalty is, too. This book has excellent illustrations and photographs throughout. Avi also does a great job explaining which parts are fiction and which are history, too.
