In 1861, when war erupted between the States, President Lincoln made an impassioned plea for volunteers. Determined not to remain on the sidelines, Emma Edmonds cropped her hair, donned men's clothing, and enlisted in the Union Army. Posing in turn as a slave, peddler, washerwoman, and fop, Emma became a cunning master of disguise, risking discovery and death over and over in order to secure valuable information. The young spy was in constant danger: illness, injury, or a slip of the tongue could reveal her true identity. And Emma's secret had to be kept at all costs.
When I ordered this book from our book swap group, I didn't realize it was for ages 10-14! Nevertheless, being interested in the history of women who served during the Civil War, I went ahead and read it. I would rate this book as more appropriate for 12, 13 and 14 year olds. Most younger children would not have the historical background on Civil War battles and issues to hold their interest. This book would be good for young women, 12-14, since it focuses on a strong female role model, and for any young person interested in Civil War history.