The Soldier

In The Soldier, readers are introduced to Will, a young boy living through the hardships of the Civil War. When he discovers a deserter hiding in his barn, Will realises that the war is much closer to home than he initially thought. Told through Will's journal entries, the story provides a personal perspective on the emotional toll the war takes on families and communities. Through Will's eyes, readers learn about the struggles faced by those not directly involved in battle but still affected by the war's far-reaching consequences. The story delves into the impact of war on civilian life, highlighting the division and sacrifices experienced by families during the conflict. The Soldier offers a deep emotional journey that engages readers with historical fiction and provides a unique view of the Civil War through personal reflections.

Educational Benefits:

• Encourages students to explore the personal impacts of war on families and communities.
• Enhances understanding of historical events through fictional accounts, allowing for deeper emotional engagement.
• Develops skills in identifying an author's purpose and point of view.
• Promotes historical inquiry and empathy by reflecting on how war affects those who are not directly involved in the conflict.

Classroom Ideas:

• Have students create their own journal entries based on a historical event, encouraging them to explore different perspectives.
• Discuss the emotional and social impacts of war on families and communities through role-play activities.
• Organise a debate about the moral dilemmas faced by characters like Will, exploring themes of loyalty, duty, and survival.
• Study the historical accuracy of the book's portrayal of the Civil War and compare it to other accounts of the era.

Information:

• Ages: 9+ years
• Reading Level: 29-30 (Sapphire)
• Historical fiction with a focus on personal accounts during wartime.