Turn Homeward, Hannalee

Turn Homeward, Hannalee by Patricia Beatty

During the final days of the civil war, two thousand Georgia textile workers are shipped north by the Union Army to work in Yankee mills. Twelve-year-old Hannalee Reed is one of these mill hands, and this is her story of fulfilling a promise to make her way home to the family she was forced to leave behind.

Hannalee is a quick-witted, plucky heroine, and the emotional impact of her story will not soon be forgotten. This powerful novel, based on historical events, reveals a little-known side of our most significant American conflict.

The Good

Hannalee promises her mother that one day she will return home, despite whatever dangers she may face. She and are brother Jem are kind to each other and try to stick together even through hardship.

The Bad

Hannalee and Jem witness a battle in Franklin, Tennessee. There is mention of whiskey and smoking. Hannalee steals boy clothes from a house even though she knows it is wrong.

Ages

Ages 10+ should read this book.

My Take

I really enjoyed this book. I love historical fiction, it’s my favorite genre, and Patricia Beatty does a great job painting a picture of how life was back in the 1860s. If you like historical fiction, you will enjoy this book.

Review by Kaitlyn