
Reach for this book when your child is feeling small or powerless in the face of big changes or intimidating authority figures. It is a wonderful tool for teaching that intelligence and quick thinking are just as powerful as physical strength. Set during the American Civil War, the story follows young Cassie as she uses her wits to outsmart Union soldiers and hide her family's precious food stores. While the historical setting provides a backdrop of tension, the focus remains on Cassie's agency and bravery. It is ideal for children aged 5 to 9 who are beginning to explore history or who simply need an empowering example of how one person can protect their home. The story provides a safe way to discuss fairness, resourcefulness, and standing up for what matters.
The book deals with the Civil War and the threat of seizure of property. The approach is secular and realistic but softened for a younger audience. The resolution is hopeful, focusing on the success of the protagonist's ingenuity rather than the larger political conflict.
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Sign in to write a reviewAn elementary student who feels overshadowed by older siblings or adults and needs to see a peer taking charge of a difficult situation. It is also perfect for a child interested in 'living history' who enjoys stories about domestic life and cooking.
Read this cold, but be prepared to explain why the soldiers were taking food (the concept of requisitioning during war) if the child asks about the fairness of the situation. A parent might choose this after seeing their child shrink away from a loud or bossy peer, or when a child expresses fear about 'bad guys' or people taking their things.
Younger children (5-6) will focus on the tension of 'hiding' and the relief of the pie. Older children (7-9) will appreciate the historical context and the irony of Cassie's cleverness against adult soldiers.
Unlike many Civil War books that focus on battles or grand movements, this focuses on a domestic, child-centered act of resistance that feels relatable and achievable to a young reader.
Set during the Civil War, Cassie and her family face a crisis when Union soldiers arrive at their farm searching for supplies. While the adults are understandably worried, Cassie takes initiative. She uses the act of baking a berry pie and some clever hiding spots to ensure her family has enough to eat through the winter, effectively outmaneuvering the soldiers without direct confrontation.
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