Joseph's Choice: 1861

American Adventures

by Bonnie Pryor, Bert Dodson (Illustrator)

"I hope Kentucky stays neutral because I truly don't know what side to take."

At the beginning of the Civil War, Kentucky hasn't sided with the North or the South, but it seems that in Branson Mills everyone has taken sides ... except for Joseph Byers.

He knows that slavery is wrong--he sees firsthand how his friend Hannah is mistreated because of the color of her skin. Yet at the same time he recognizes how much trouble speaking out against slavery can cause. His stepfather's abolitionist actions have put the whole family in danger of the vigilante violence that is sweeping the town.

Although Joseph admires his stepfather's bravery, he is afraid to stand up for what he has come to believe. But when the violence escalates, he is forced to take action. In this gripping adventure, Joseph reaches for his own courage to try to save the lives of the people he cares about.

176 pages, Hardcover

First published August 8, 2000

Reviews

[Dwight Croy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for children wanting to know the social and political struggle of the civil war. The setting in Kentucky allows for a wide-painted canvas of all the possible views of states' rights, slavery, and how people would have to choose. Could see this book in both a history class and/or an English class. Also a good choice for black history month.

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Focusing on the beginning of the Civil War in deeply-divided Kentucky, this book provided great opportunities for talking about how difficult it can be to do the right thing.

[Katy Lovejoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

With as much as I like historical fiction I'm surprised I havent found this before

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another interesting historical fiction...I liked it almost as well as the first book. The historical information is interesting, though not as complete as the first. The main character was a little stronger in this book. The supporting characters were a bit weak, in my opinion. Considering the target audience, I think this book would be interesting and informative for the upper elementary/early middle school crowd. Overall, a worthwhile read.

[Ms. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joseph's choice is about a boy named Joseph who is in a war of the north and south.Joseph does not know what side to choose,the north or the south.If you want to know more read Joseph's Choice.