Nurse, Soldier, Spy

Brief Summary

Nurse, Soldier, Spy by Marissa Moss is a captivating picture book that tells the remarkable true story of Sarah Emma Edmonds. At the age of nineteen, Sarah took on the identity of Frank Thompson to join a Michigan army regiment during the Civil War. Her journey unfolds as she excels as both a soldier and a nurse, eventually being called upon to serve as a spy due to her heroism. Vivid illustrations by John Hendrix bring this thrilling tale to life, offering an engaging look at Sarah's courageous adventures on the battlefield.

Main Themes and Topics

The book explores themes of courage, identity, and perseverance. It delves into the idea of challenging societal norms, as Sarah disguises herself as a man to fight for the Union Army, highlighting issues of gender roles and the search for personal freedom. Additionally, the book depicts the harsh realities of war, courage under fire, and the bravery required to overcome personal and external challenges.

Writing Style and Tone

Marissa Moss delivers a riveting narrative that balances excitement and historical detail. Her storytelling is fast-paced and filled with energy, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. The tone is adventurous yet informative, capturing the spirit of Sarah's daring exploits while providing educational value about an intriguing period of history.

Awards and Recognition

Nurse, Soldier, Spy has earned critical acclaim for both its compelling storytelling and the artistry of its illustrations. It has been celebrated for making Sarah Edmonds's story accessible to children while maintaining the gravity of its historical context, as evidenced by starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Library Media Connection. The book's ability to convey a significant amount of historical information in a readable and entertaining format has been particularly praised.

Criticism

While Nurse, Soldier, Spy has been widely admired, some readers may find that the brevity necessitated by the picture book format leaves certain historical details and complexities less explored. However, the book successfully balances its target audience's understanding and interest level with the depth of Sarah's story.