Called to War

Brief Summary

Called to War by Sherman L. Fleek follows the poignant journey of the Barlow family as they navigate the challenges of relocating from England to America in the mid-19th century. As new adherents of the Latter-day Saint faith, the family is driven by a quest for religious freedom. While journeying across the Iowa plains in 1846, twin brothers Arthur and York Barlow are confronted with a critical decision: whether to heed the call to join the Mormon Battalion. This narrative captures their internal struggle as they weigh the duty to their faith and community against their responsibilities to their widowed mother.

Main Themes and Topics

The novel delves into themes of faith, duty, and family. Through the Barlow twins’ experiences, Fleek explores the complexities of religious conviction and the sacrifices it often demands. Loyalty and the commitment to a higher cause are central motifs, as is the tension between personal desires and communal obligations. The backdrop of the Mormon Battalion presents an opportunity to examine historical aspects of the Latter-day Saint migration and the broader context of American westward expansion.

Writing Style and Tone

Sherman L. Fleek employs a narrative style that is both engaging and informative, skillfully weaving historical context with personal stories. The tone is reflective, with an emphasis on introspection as characters grapple with their choices. Fleek's attention to historical detail enriches the story, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of the time period and the challenges faced by early Mormon pioneers.

Criticism

While Called to War is appreciated for its historical accuracy and engaging narrative, some readers may find the pacing uneven at times, particularly during sections heavy with historical exposition. This may affect the momentum of the character-driven storyline, although the depth of detail appeals to those interested in historical fiction.