The Distaff Side, Kathleen A. Ernst, Ghosts of Vicksburg

Jamie Carswell, a young soldier with the 14^th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment, is haunted by the civilian suffering he witnesses while campaigning in Mississippi. His favorite cousin, Althea, is already tormented by a past mistake when she finds herself trapped inside Vicksburg during the Union Army’s siege in 1863. Ghosts of Vicksburg is the compelling story of two young people struggling to find their way during one of the most dramatic campaigns of the Civil War.

"An emotional and moving portrayal of the horror and lasting costs of war, Ghosts Of Vicksburg is an especially recommended addition to school and community libraries."

--Midwest Book Review

"Ernst has used many primary sources to write a story that transports readers into a heartbreaking part of this country's history. The characters are well drawn and realistic in their emotions, hopes, doubts, courage, and anxieties. Readers come to understand what it must have been like to face friends and family across a battlefield, to believe in your cause and yet fear for the safety of loved ones on the other side. The author has done a commendable job of remaining neutral and showing the good and bad of both causes."

--School Library Journal

"A first-rate book."

--Lance J. Herdegen, Director, Institute of Civil War Studies, Carroll College

This softcover book contains period photographs and illustrations, an author's note explaining fact from fiction, and a resource list teachers will find helpful. To read a chapter of this book, click HERE.

Ghosts of Vicksburg is published by White Mane Press and is available through your local bookstore and these online sources.

Ghosts of Vicksburg

Kathleen Ernst

Arthur Tofte Award
Best Juvenile Novel by a Wisconsin Author

Ghosts of Vicksburg

Kathleen Ernst

Arthur Tofte AwardBest Juvenile Novel by a Wisconsin Author

Arthur Tofte Award
Best Juvenile Novel by a Wisconsin Author