March Toward the Thunder

Joseph Bruchac's 'March Toward the Thunder' tells the compelling story of Louis Nolette, a 15-year-old Abenaki Indian from Canada who enlists in the Union's Irish Brigade during the American Civil War. Driven by the promise of wages and the fight against slavery, Louis faces the harsh realities of war, encountering both prejudice and unexpected acceptance. Based on the author's own great-grandfather's experiences, this meticulously researched historical fiction offers a vital, often overlooked perspective on the conflict, highlighting the diverse individuals who shaped American history. It's an immersive read for young adults, blending adventure with profound themes of identity, justice, and resilience.

A unique perspective on the Civil War as only Joseph Bruchac could tell it.Louis Nolette is a fifteen-year-old Abenaki Indian from Canada who is recruited to fight in the northern Irish Brigade in the war between the states. Even though he is too young, and not American or Irish, he finds the promise of good wages and the Union's fight to end slavery persuasive reasons to join up. But war is never what you expect, and as Louis fights his way through battle after battle, he encounters prejudice and acceptance, courage and cowardice, and strong and weak leadership in the most unexpected places.Master storyteller and acclaimed author Joseph Bruchac tells a Civil War story based on the experiences of his own great grandfather. Chock-full of historical facts and details, this carefully researched book will give readers new insight into some of the untold stories and unsung heroes of the American Civil War.