From School Library Journal
Gr 6-8-When war breaks out in 1812, the St. Lawrence River becomes a point of connection between the British and Canadians on one bank and the Americans on the other. Jared and Leah Jackson live on the U.S. side. Their father forbids them to see their friend James, who is Canadian. Both Jared and James sign up to serve their respective countries. Their fear, later realized, is that they will one day meet in battle and be forced to shoot at one another. The plot meanders slowly until about halfway through the book when James is badly injured. The Jacksons find him and nurse him back to health, but he then becomes a prisoner of war. Escaping from his American captors, he begins a journey back to his home on the other side of the river. His adventures and close calls make this the most exciting portion of the book. Explanations about the war and the issues involved are placed within the story but are more confusing than enlightening. A chronology of events, a good map, and a glossary attempt to explain the history and unfamiliar terms. However, readers are still likely to finish the story understanding that there was a conflict but not knowing why. The writing has a strained formality about it, and dialogue is stiff. The plot relies heavily on coincidence as James and Jared cross paths at the most convenient times. If readers can wade through the early chapters, they will be rewarded later with some high adventure. However, this is not a first purchase.-Bruce Anne Shook, Mendenhall Middle School, Greensboro, NC
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
--Ce texte fait référence à une édition épuisée ou non disponible de ce titre.Book Description
Now their countries are at war. The young men find themselves enemies in a conflict that neither understands, sworn reluctantly to defend their homes and families from invasion. As the war heats up, raids become battles and Jamie prays he'll never come face to face with his best friend. And what about Jared's sister Leah? Beautiful, courageous Leah -- Jamie has known her all his life. Will he ever see her again? And if he does, will Jamie be free to declare his love?
A gripping story set durring the War of 1812. --Ce texte fait référence à une édition épuisée ou non disponible de ce titre.
