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Resources

Below are some informative, reliable books and websites for people of all ages! These resources have been approved by the MCHE staff, and are listed in no particular order. We've also given each book an age rating, with our rating criteria explained in-depth here. Did your favorite historical book or website not make our list? Contact us, so we can add it to our ever-expanding resources! Also, be sure to check out the video at the bottom of this page to discover more about our resources.

Pictured: An April 17, 1862, New York Daily Tribune newspaper

Kid's Books:

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The Who Was? series

The Who Was? series, written by various authors, is wonderful for elementary schoolers who want to learn more about numerous historical figures.

Genre

nonfiction

Authors

vary

Ages

7+

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Daria Solves a Mystery

Daria Solves A Mystery, written by Norma Jean Lutz, is a superb novel for elementary and middle schoolers who want to learn more about spies during the Civil War.

Genre

fiction

Author

Norma J. Lutz

Ages

8+

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Courage To Run

Courage To Run, written by Wendy Lawton, provides insight to Harriet Tubman's early life. This is a beautiful story about one of America's best Underground Railroad conductors.

Genre

nonfiction

Author

Wendy Lawton

Ages

8+

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The I Survived series

The I Survived series, written by Lauren Tarshis, is a must-read for young kids who enjoy learning about various historical topics.

Genre

historical fiction

Author

Lauren Tarshis

Ages

7+

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Two Tickets To Freedom

Two Tickets To Freedom, written by Florence B. Freedman, offers a glimpse into the lives of African- Americans during the 1800s.

Genre

nonfiction

Author

Florence Freedman

Ages

8+

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Story of the Civil War Coloring Book

This book provides information on each coloring book page. Because this coloring book skillfully intertwines information with an activity, it's wonderful for reluctant readers. 

Genre

coloring book

Author

Peter Copeland

Ages

2+

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The Civil War Experience

The Civil War Experience is unique in that it gives kids the ability to decide what they would do, had they lived in the 1860s. MCHE highly recommends this book for visual learners.

Genre

"you choose" book

Author

Matt Doeden, Allison Lassieur

Ages

9+

Pre-teen/Teen Books:

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Rebel Spirits

Sixteen-year-old Lori Chase is not excited about moving to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. When she moves into a historic inn, however, the history of Gettysburg becomes more personal--especially when she meets the ghost of a Union soldier who was killed during the Gettysburg battle.

Genre

fiction

Author

Lois Ruby

Ages

13+

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Behind Rebel Lines

Behind Rebel Lines, written by Seymour Reit, is a great book for those who like to uncover women's roles in the Civil War.

Genre

nonfiction

Author

Seymour Reit

Ages

12+

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Echoes of Andersonville

Echoes of Andersonville, written by Robert D. Dean, is an excellent fiction book that highlights some of the injustices that took place in one of the Civil War's most notorious prisoner of war camps.

Genre

Christian fiction

Author

Robert Dean

Ages

13+

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The Perilous Road

The Perilous Road, written by William O. Steele, is a good book that discusses the challenges a young teen would face because of the War Between the States.

Genre

fiction

Author

William Steele

Ages

11+

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The Freedom Seekers series

The Freedom Seekers series, written by Lois Walfrid Johnson, is an amazing read for people of all ages! The series follows 3 teenagers from the 1850s who have to decide: should America give freedom and justice to all?

Genre

Christian fiction

Author

Lois Johnson

Ages

12+

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Shades of Gray

Shades of Gray, written by Carolyn Reeder, discusses the life of a pre-teen boy who has to choose whether to follow his father, or what's right in 1860s post-Civil War America.

Genre

fiction

Author

Carolyn Reeder

Ages

11+

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Romeo and Juliet Code and Romeo Blue

The Romeo and Juliet Code and Romeo Blue, written by Pheobe Stone, are wonderful novels that are etched with mystery as they follow the life of two young teens from the 1940s.

Genre

fiction

Author

Pheobe Stone

Ages

12+

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Like A River

Like A River, written by Kathy Cannon Wiechman, is a riveting novel. From start to finish, this book leaves you on the edge of your seat and wanting more! 5 stars for history (and even non-history) enthusiasts!

Genre

fiction

Author

Kathy Wiechman

Ages

12+

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The River Between Us

The River Between Us, written by Richard Peck, is a great Civil War mystery that leaves you in suspense until the surprise ending.

Genre

fiction

Author

Richard Peck

Ages

13+

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Across Five Aprils

Across Five Aprils, written by Irene Hunt, depicts the life of an Illinois farm boy whose world is turned upside down when his family is divided during the Civil War.

Genre

fiction

Author

Irene Hunt

Ages

11+

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Rifles for Watie

Rifles for Watie, written by Harold Keith, cleverly interweaves fact with fiction to create a lovely Civil War novel that will soon become one of your favorite historical books. 

Genre

fiction

Author

Harold Keith

Ages

12+

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Homefront

Homefront, written by Doris Gwaltney, is a beautiful novel about World War II that depicts what life was like for those left at home during the second World War. A great read for all pre-teens and teens alike.

Genre

fiction

Author

Doris Gwaltney

Ages

13+

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The Seeds of American Trilogy

The Seeds of America Trilogy, written by Laurie Halse Anderson, is about two African-American's who have to decide the true meaning of freedom. Set during the American War for Independence, Chains, Forge, and Ashes are an amazing set for those with an interest in 1700s American history.

Genre

fiction

Author

Laurie H. Anderson

Ages

13+

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Fever 1793

Fever 1793, written by Laurie Halse Anderson, is set in Philadelphia during a Yellow Fever epidemic. This book is beautifully crafted to create a stunning 1700s historical fiction novel.

Genre

fiction

Author

Laurie H. Anderson

Ages

14+

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Within These Lines

It's hard to imagine that less than 100 years ago Japanese-American citizens were relocated from their homes. But Taichi Hamasaki has found that's exactly what's happening to him and his family as he's driven away from his friends and Italian girlfriend, Evalina Cassano. Written from alternating perspectives, Within These Lines is a literary masterpiece that will leave readers reflecting on the past long after the last page.

Genre

fiction

Author

Stephanie Morrill

Ages

16+

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The Lost Girl of Astor Street

Piper Sail lives in 1924 Chicago and her friend has recently gone missing. Determined to find the truth--and her friend--Piper embarks on a journey that will delve into Chicago's notoriously all while discovering love in the process.

Genre

fiction

Author

Stephanie Morrill

Ages

16+

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Union Soldier of the American Civil War

Union Soldier of the American Civil War, written by Denis Hambucken and Chris Benedetto, discusses Civil War accouterments and the everyday life of a Civil War soldier. This book is not only good for teens, but also for adult beginner Civil War enthusiasts.

Genre

informative

Author

Denis Hambucken, Chris Bendetto

Ages

10+

Adult Informational Books:

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Shiloh National Military Park (Images of America)

Shiloh National Military Park (Images of America), written by Brian K. McCutchen and Timothy B. Smith, is filled with photos featuring Shiloh's generals, veterans, and the park itself. This book is perfect for those who love to learn about the Battle of Shiloh.

Genre

informational

Authors

Brian McCutchen, Timothy Smith

Ages

all ages

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The Civil War in 500 Photographs (Time Life Books)

The Civil War in 500 Photographs (Time Life Books), has a variety of pictures from America's first photographed war. It's also full of information that is crucial when studying the Civil War.

Genre

informational

Author

Time Life Editors

Ages

all ages

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The Civil War

The Civil War, published by JG Press, is wonderful for major Civil War enthusiasts. With around 800 pages, this novel is packed-full of information.

Genre

informational

Author

JG Press

Ages

all ages

No Seller Found
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The Civil War On The Front Lines

The Civil War On The Front Lines, from Time Life, is a great magazine that is full of not only pictures, but also lots of information.

Genre

informational

Author

Time Life

Ages

all ages

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Fierce Patriot

Fierce Patriot: The Tangled Lives of William Tecumseh Sherman is an interesting, information-packed book that studies perhaps one the most influential Union Civil War commanders. While this book is excellent for readers desiring to delve into General Sherman's life, it may not be suitable for younger readers due to profanity, adult content, etc.

Genre

informational

Author

Robert O'Connell

Ages

16+

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Grant

Drawing from Grant's memoirs and other primary documents, Ron Chernow's Grant gives readers an in-depth look at the early life, military career, and presidential career of Ulysses S. Grant.

Genre

informational

Author

Robert O'Connell

Ages

16+

Memoir Books:

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Hardtack and Coffee

Hardack and Coffee, written by  Union Civil War veteran, John D. Billings, is one of the finest Civil War novels ever written. The best way to learn history is to read first-hand accounts, and Billings doesn't disappoint in this book. He keeps the subject interesting by adding humor to his writings. A five-star novel, and an MCHE favorite.

Genre

memoir/biography

Authors

John Bilings

Ages

all ages

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Company Aytch

Company Aytch is an informative, intriguing memoir written by Confederate Civil War veteran, Sam Watkins. Involved in major battles such as Perryville and Shiloh (to name a few!), Watkins offers invaluable first-hand accounts from the war. Laced with humor and stories, this memoir was a delight to read!

Genre

memoir/biography

Author

Sam Watkins

Ages

all ages

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The Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant

The Personal Memories of Ulysses S. Grant: The Complete Annotated Edition offers all of Grant's original writings, but with the inclusion of helpful annotations. This was a 5 star read!

Genre

memoir/biography

Author

Ulysses S. Grant

Ages

all ages

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John Ransom's Andersonville Diary

John Ransom's Andersonville Diary is, in MCHE's opinion, one of the most informative books available to read. John Ransom wrote in his diary while imprisoned at Andersonville, so this book (published after the Civil War) was full of information that shed light on the horrors of the Prisoner of War camp. For history enthusiasts, this is a must-read!

Genre

memoir/biography

Author

John Ransom

Ages

all ages

Adult Fiction Books:

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A Thousand Shall Fall (Shenandoah Valley Saga)

A Thousand Shall Fall is an exquisite first novel of the Shenandoah Valley Saga that follows the life of Carrie Ann Bell, an eighteen-year-old who lives in Virginia and determines to choose no sides in the War Between the States. When Carrie gets to know Colonel Petyon Collier, though, perhaps the best side to choose is the side of true love. 

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Andrea Boeshaar

Ages

adult

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Too Deep for Words (Shenandoah Valley Saga)

In the second installment of the Shenandoah Valley Saga, life for Carrie isn't all that it started out as. Between dealing with a Confederate colonel, her younger sister, and fleeing south in hopes of finding Peyton, this second installment won't disappoint!

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Andrea Boeshaar

Ages

adult

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There Is A Season (Shenandoah Valley Saga)

The final installment of the Shenandoah Valley Saga takes readers on a journey through the eyes of multiple characters (including Carrie) and explores life and issues that occurred after the Civil War's close. 

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Andrea Boeshaar

Ages

adult

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With This Pledge

Elizabeth Clouston may live in the south, but that doesn't mean she values all of the south's beliefs. Yet, when the Battle of Franklin erupts in Elizabeth's hometown, the color of one's uniform seems irrelevant. While the Civil War rages around her, Elizabeth must care for wounded soldiers, assist with amputations, and decide what's more important to her--a seemingly "safe" marriage with a man she's known her entire life or true love.

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Tamera Alexander

Ages

adult

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A Beauty So Rare

Eleanor Braddock is, by late 1860s standards, a plain, practical woman. Eleanor--who's almost considered an "old maid"--is destined to be married off by orders of her wealthy aunt. When Archduke Marcus Gottfried comes to town, however, Eleanor must decide what's more important to her: a financially secure marriage or a relationship with a formerly trouble-making archduke.

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Tamera Alexander

Ages

adult

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To Whisper Her Name

Olivia Aberdeen is shunned by mid-1860s society because of her late husband's traitorous acts to the south. So when Olivia receives an invitation to temporarily reside at Belle Meade, she jumps at the chance. But Olivia may get more than she ever bargained for...she may fall in love with a former Union soldier.

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Tamera Alexander

Ages

adult

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Remembered

Veronique Girard is on a mission to find her father. Traveling from France to the Wild West may be a culture shock, but Veronique manages just fine. Until news flips her world upside down and she realizes that she may have found something different than what she originally sought. 

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Tamera Alexander

Ages

adult

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The Inheritance

McKenna Ashford needed to escape her past, so traveling west with her trouble-making younger brother in tow seemed like a prime solution. But upon arriving at her cousin's home to start over, McKenna realizes that the past sometimes repeats itself.

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Tamera Alexander

Ages

adult

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Along a Storied Trail

Tansy Calhoun is helping her family through rough times by working as a packhorse librarian in Eastern Kentucky. Along the way, Tansy realizes that the perfect life she was seeking--had always read about--might not be so far away...

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Ann H. Gabhart

Ages

adult

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Rosey Corner Series

Kate Merritt might be the middle child, but she's the one who's forced to be responsible for her older and younger sister. She also has to tend to her father and make sure her mother is all right. So when Kate finds a little girl on her church's steps, she's quickly dubbed the "Angel Sister." Kate isn't an angel, but she will fight to make sure her new little sister stays with her family. For lovers of Kentucky history and an enthralling tale that's hard to put down, the Rosey Corner Series is sure to delight readers. Also check out Small Town Girl and Love Comes Home, the next installments in the series!

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Ann H. Gabhart

Ages

adult

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River to Redemption

Based on a true story, River to Redemption explores the cholera epidemic in the 1800s and the lives of those affected. Plus, one strong female character will fight to make sure the slave who saved her life finally finds the freedom he deserves.

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Ann H. Gabhart

Ages

adult

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Refiner's Fire Series

The Civil War, and the years prior, were challenging for many. This series details the lives of those, North and South, who felt the tumult of the conflict and struggled to find healing.

Genre

Christian fiction romance

Author

Lynn Austin

Ages

adult

Local/Kentucky Books:

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My Last Day in Browder: Explosion of 1910

My Last Day in Browder: Explosion of 1910 is a wonderful book written about one of Kentucky's worst mine disasters, which took place in Browder, Kentucky. This book is perfect for those who love history, especially Kentucky mining history!

Genre

informational

Author

Barry Duvall

Ages

all ages

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United We Stand, Divided We Stood

Looking for a book that covers not only the Civil War in Muhlenberg County, but offers an in-depth look at the community's Civil War veterans? Then check out United We Stand, Divided We Stood!

Genre

informational

Author

Barry Duvall

Ages

all ages

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A New History of Muhlenberg County

This is a great book that breaks down Muhlenberg County's history town by town. A good novel for local history lovers!

Genre

informational

Author

Paul Camplin

Ages

all ages

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A History of Muhlenberg County

Originally published in 1913, A History of Muhlenberg County remains a superb resource for individuals looking to delve into all aspects of Muhlenberg County's history. A wonderful read for history enthusiasts!

Genre

informational 

Author

Otto Rothert

Ages

all ages

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Hidden History of Kentucky in the Civil War

Hidden History of Kentucky in the Civil War discusses Kentucky's extensive role in the American Civil War. Not only does it mention Kentucky battles, but it also highlights some of Kentucky's historical people from the Civil War era and little-known history of the border states role in War Between the States.

Genre

informational

Author

Berry Craig

Ages

all ages

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History of the 11th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry

This book is packed-full of information about one of the most well-known local regiments that soldiers volunteered with. This novel is great for those with ancestors who served with this regiment (as it has biographies of the regiment's soldiers), or for those with an interest in Kentucky regiments.

Genre

informational

Author

William Wilson

Ages

all ages

Websites:

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American Battlefield Trust

American Battlefield Trust is a wonderful website for Civil War history enthusiasts. With information on generals, key battles, and Civil War in 4 videos, this website is spectacular for audiences of all ages. 

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Shiloh National Military Park

Shiloh National Military Park is perfect for those who want to learn more about the bloody Civil War battle and the park.

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The National Park Service Search for Civil War

Soldiers

The National Park Service Search for Civil War Soldiers provides information about veterans of one of America's bloodiest conflicts.

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Illinois Muster and Descriptive Rolls

Illinois Muster and Descriptive Rolls from the Illinois State Archives has information pertaining to Illinois Civil War veterans.

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Family Search

Family Search is great for genealogists. With information on select people, such as marriage certificates and censuses, this website is wonderful for researching ancestors free of cost.

Video:

Show me a family of readers, and I will show you the people who move the world. - Napoleon Bonaparte 
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