Nina Chamberlin- Civil War Drummer Boy

Nina Chamberlin:

This book is very versatile because it touches on music as well as history. It follows a civil war dummer boy through his life before, during, and after the war. Although not a huge component, the book touches on the concept of slaves and death in war, but teaches a worthwhile lessons about the dark sides to war and the ability for the South to go on without unpaid labor from slaves. It can also teach children that both sides of wars suffer, and that one can gain sympathy and understanding through examining a different point of view. Although this book is a tad bit dark for younger readers, it can be a great story to link to any history lessons about the Civil War. It also illustrates how important music can be in a variety of situations, and not just a concert hall.