Charley Skedaddle facts for kids
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| Author | Patricia Beatty |
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| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Subject | Civil War |
| Genre | Children's fiction |
| Publisher | Troll Associates |
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Publication date
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1987 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 186 pages |
Charley Skedaddle is an exciting children's book written by Patricia Beatty. It was first published in 1987 by Troll Associates. The book even won a special award in 1988 called the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction. What's cool is that the story of Charley Skedaddle is based on real events from the American Civil War.
Charley's Big Adventure
The story is about Charley, a 12-year-old boy living in New York City. He used to run errands for a street gang called the Bowery Boys. After getting into some trouble with the gang, Charley decides to leave his old life behind.
Joining the Army
Charley really looks up to his older brother, Johnny, who sadly died during the Battle of Gettysburg. Wanting to be like Johnny, Charley joins the 140th Regiment as a drummer boy. He is very excited to fight at first.
Running Away
However, after shooting a Rebel soldier, Charley gets scared and runs away. He feels very ashamed of himself. An enemy soldier captures him, but Charley manages to escape again. He keeps running until he reaches the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Life in the Mountains
In the mountains, Charley meets Granny Bent. She is an older mountain woman who calls herself a "doctor-woman." Charley learns many important things from Granny Bent. He starts to grow up and feel better about himself. He gains a new sense of maturity and self-respect.
New Beginnings
Eventually, Charley has to leave the mountains again. But this time, he carries with him all the valuable lessons he learned. He is a changed boy, ready to face whatever comes next.
