THE TAMARACK TREE

by Patricia Clapp ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 10, 1986

An engrossing fictionalized account of the siege of Vicksburg during the Civil War, as well as the story of a spirited young English girl. After the death of her mother, Rosemary is transplanted to America by her older brother, who has been living in Vicksburg. Though at first overwhelmed by life in the South, she soon makes close friends--both white and black. When war breaks out, Rosemary is torn: as a foreigner, she looks objectively at the issues and sympathizes with both sides. The war, therefore, presents to her not only the hardships and dangers faced by everyone but also much emotional turmoil, which increases as the war goes on: she falls in love with a Yankee soldier, learns of her brother's involvement with the Underground Railroad, and comes to know the cruelties suffered by slaves at the hands of their owners. When Vicksburg is finally ""taken,"" Rosemary feels both relief and sadness. And the reader feels a great loss when she and her brother return to England. This remarkable book makes history come alive, tells a memorable story about a memorable heroine, and examines objectively the delicate issues surrounding slavery. Fine for adults as well as teens. Bibliography.

Pub Date: Oct. 10, 1986

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 224

Publisher: Lothrop, Lee & Shepard

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 1986

Categories: CHILDREN'S