
Reach for this book if your child is struggling to see themselves reflected in the history they learn at school or if they are navigating the complexities of a nonbinary or queer identity. It is a vital resource for middle schoolers who feel like their stories have been erased by the past and are looking for a way to reclaim their place in the world. The story follows Amos, a Civil War reenactor, who begins a research project to find LGBTQ+ figures from the 1860s. While the book tackles heavy themes of historical erasure and systemic exclusion, it remains a hopeful and empowering read for ages 8 to 12. It masterfully balances contemporary friendship drama with historical inquiry, making it an excellent choice for kids who love history but want it to feel more inclusive. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful way it models standing up for one's identity while maintaining a sense of wonder about the past.
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Sign in to write a reviewThemes of loneliness and feeling invisible in history.
The book addresses gender identity and historical erasure directly and through a secular lens. It touches on the exclusionary nature of certain traditions and the discomfort of coming out. The resolution is realistic and empowering, focusing on community and personal growth rather than a perfect systemic overhaul.
A middle schooler who loves the 'Who Was' series but is starting to realize those books don't always tell the whole story. This is for the child who feels like an outsider in traditional spaces and needs to see that 'different' people have always existed and thrived.
Parents should be prepared to discuss the concept of historical erasure and the specific history of Albert Cashier. Reading the author's note at the end is highly recommended for context. A parent might reach for this after hearing their child say, 'There's no one like me in my history textbook,' or after a child expresses anxiety about joining a club where they don't see themselves represented.
Younger readers will focus on the friendship and the 'detective' aspect of the research. Older readers will resonate more with the nuances of identity, the weight of historical legacy, and the romantic subplots.
Unlike many LGBTQ+ middle grade novels that focus solely on contemporary issues, this book bridges the gap between modern identity and historical research, turning the act of learning history into an act of self-discovery.
Amos Abernathy is a 12 year old Civil War reenactor who loves history but notices a glaring absence of LGBTQ+ stories in his museum's exhibits. When he develops a crush on a new volunteer named Ben, Amos begins a formal research project (written as letters to Albert D. J. Cashier, a real trans soldier) to find evidence of queer people in the 1860s. He faces pushback from the conservative reenactment community and must navigate his evolving identity while fighting for historical representation.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.