The Rankin family helped to bring over 2000 slaves to freedom via the Underground Railroad. This work helps the reader discover their world through the eyes of Adam, the oldest of the Rankin children.

For ages 9-12. What would life be like for a 10-year-old drummer boy serving in the American Civil War? Essentially the same as for any enlistee! There was little opportunity to shield anyone from either the good or bad experiences of war. There were playmaking, pranks, jokes, marches, and battles -- as well as carrying the wounded and burying the dead. Courage is commonly ascribed to adults. With Gilbert Van-Zandt, Lil Gib, we must recognise his unusual valour and patriotism -- uncommon at any time, in any war.