
Rodman Philbrick's Newbery Honor book, 'The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg,' transports readers to the tumultuous American Civil War. The story follows young orphan Homer P. Figg, a boy known for his imaginative, often exaggerated, storytelling, as he sets out on a dangerous journey to find and free his older brother, Harold, who has been illegally forced into the Union army. Along the way, Homer encounters a colorful cast of characters, from Quakers aiding the Underground Railroad to a traveling medicine show and even Rebel spies, all while navigating the brutal realities of war. This historical novel is a powerful exploration of sibling love, perseverance, justice, and the complex nature of truth, making it an excellent choice for children ready for a substantial, thought-provoking adventure.
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Sign in to write a reviewHomer faces numerous life-threatening situations during his quest.
Set during the American Civil War with battle scenes and consequences.
Homer and Harold are orphans and are forcibly separated.
Harold suffers a severe leg infection leading to amputation.