A close knit Southern Illinois family with ties to the South are torn by the issues of the American Civil War. Jethro listens to their debates, but at ten years old he must stay and work the farm as the menfolk leave to fight in the war. He is faced with defending his family's honor in town due to one brother's rebel sympathies, and he continually sorts through the issues with those left near home and in his mind.

This is an incredibly moving story that comprehensively discusses the issues of the time. One of the books I recommend all students read for further understanding of the Civil War.
RL=6th-YA