New York Public Library Best Books for Kids List (2024)

"Epic is an overused word--most of the time. It barely begins to explain the tremendous work and vision behind this sensational piece of compelling nonfiction that truly is a picture book for young readers and adults." -- School Library Journal (STARRED REVIEW)

"A stunning debut...arresting artwork...gasp-inducing." -- Shelf Awareness (STARRED REVIEW)

A dramatically illustrated biography of Private Rosetta "Lyons" Wakeman, the only soldier whose letters capture the Civil War from a woman's perspective.

In 1862, the war between North and South showed no signs of stopping. In rural New York, nineteen-year-old Rosetta Wakeman longed for a life beyond the family farm. One day she made a brave, bold choice: she cut her braid and disguised herself as a man. No one suspected that "Lyons" was a woman--not even when she signed up to fight for the Union. As Rosetta's new regiment traveled to Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Louisiana, she sent letter after letter home to New York. Army life wasn't easy, but Rosetta knew it was where she belonged-- supporting her family and serving her country.

Through intricately detailed scratchboard art and excerpts from Rosetta's letters, this fascinating biography introduces young readers to an unconventional woman who was determined to claim her own place in history. Memorable and inspiring, Guts for Glory is a stirring portrait of the Civil War and the courage of those who fought on its front lines.