The Curse of the Buttons

Set in a small Iowa town during the American Civil War, 'The Curse of the Buttons' follows young Ike, who is eager to join the Union cause but is deemed too young. As the men of his family, the 'Button men,' depart for war, Ike is left behind with his mother, aunts, and girl cousins. The story explores Ike's feelings of being left out, his longing for adventure and purpose, and his observations of how the war impacts his community and family. It's a poignant yet hopeful look at a significant historical period through the eyes of a child, offering insights into home front life, gender roles, and the universal desire to contribute.

When a steamboat arrives heralding the news that Iowa has been called up to represent the Union of the United States of America, Ike is beside himself with excitement. For months, the promise of war has enveloped small-town Keokuk like a grand game that everyone's in on - everyone but Ike, his swaybacked pony, and his best friend and checkers partner, Albirdie. Left behind with Mother and the aunts and girl cousins while the Button men march forth toward glory, Ike's fate is sealed.