Like a River: A Civil War Novel

Winner of the Grateful American Book Prize

This moving story of two young Union soldiers "joins other great middle grade novels about the Civil War"--an "excellent" read "for all fans of historical fiction who enjoy a hint of romance." (School Library Journal)

Leander and Polly are two teenage Union soldiers who carry deep, dangerous secrets . . . Leander is underage when he enlists; Polly follows her father into war, disguised as his son. Soon, the war proves life changing for both as they survive incredible odds. Leander struggles to be accepted as a man and loses his arm. Polly mourns the death of her father, endures Andersonville Prison, and narrowly escapes the Sultana steamboat disaster. As the lives of these young, brave soldiers intersect, each finds a wealth of courage and learns about the importance of loyalty, family, and love.

Like a River is a lyrical atmospheric first novel told in two voices. Readers will be transported to the homes, waterways, camps, hospitals, and prisons of the Civil-War era. They will also see themselves in the universal themes of dealing with parents, friendships, bullying, failure, and young love.

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Calkins Creek Books
Published: 09/29/2026
ISBN: 9781662681837
Pages: 336
Weight: 0.84lbs
Size: 8.25h x 5.50w x 0.76d
Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 172586 / Like a River: A Civil War Novel
Reading Level: 5.1 / Interest Level: Middle Grade / Point Value: 8