
In the spring of 1862 a group of teenage girls gathers in a modest Union home, determined to turn their knitting needles into tools of patriotism. Led by the thoughtful sixteen‑year‑old Jeanne Vance, they stitch handkerchiefs and socks for soldiers while dreaming of ways to do more for the war effort. Their conversations reveal a restless spirit—girls who refuse to be confined to idle chores and who yearn to make a real difference as the nation’s conflict rages.
When the United States Sanitary Commission’s call for aid reaches their town, the girls seize the chance to step beyond the basket, confronting the hardships of supply shortages and the harsh realities of a divided country. Their resolve pulls them into a world where courage is measured not just on the battlefield but also in the quiet perseverance of those who work behind the lines, setting the stage for unexpected trials and heartfelt alliances.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (334K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2010-06-27
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1865–1932
An American writer and teacher, she built lively historical stories for young readers, often centering girls and women who show courage in moments of national change. Her books range from medieval England to the American Revolution and the Civil War.
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