Battles of the American Civil War (A True Book)
New True Books: Space (Paperback) Series
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
Written by noted historian Catherine Clinton, this installment in the long-running A True Book series introduces middle-grade readers to eight pivotal battles of the United States Civil War (1861-1865). Through clear prose, archival photographs, maps, and helpful sidebars, the book explains why each battle mattered, how geography and leadership shaped the outcome, and what the fighting meant for soldiers and civilians alike. Timelines and glossaries keep young historians oriented, while primary-source quotes bring nineteenth-century voices to life.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-13
Length
48 pages, Paperback
Text complexity
Character compass
Ulysses S. Grant
William T. Sherman
Abraham Lincoln
Jefferson Davis
Robert E. Lee
Discussion points
Why might soldiers on both sides believe they were fighting for freedom?
How did geography influence the outcomes of certain battles?
Which leader’s decision surprised you most, and why?
How might civilians have felt when battles neared their towns?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a U.S. map to trace troop movements together.
Connect leadership choices in the book to everyday decision-making.
Encourage children to create a mini-timeline of events.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Consequences of Leadership Choices
Explanation: Battle outcomes hinged on quick decisions by commanders.
Real-World Application: Think through options before acting in group projects.
Example Lesson: Importance of Geography
Explanation: Rivers and hills often decided victory or defeat.
Real-World Application: Consider surroundings when planning events or games.
Example Lesson: Empathy for All Sides
Explanation: Soldiers and civilians suffered regardless of uniform color.
Real-World Application: Listen to classmates’ perspectives during disagreements.
Example Lesson: Perseverance Amid Adversity
Explanation: Both armies endured hardship yet continued.
Real-World Application: Keep trying when homework feels difficult.