Shades of Gray (Reeder novel) facts for kids
Cover of 1999 Australian edition
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| Author | Carolyn Reeder |
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| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's fiction, Historical Fiction |
| Set in | Shenandoah Valley, 1865 |
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Publication date
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1989 |
| Media type | Print (Hardcover, Paperback) |
| Pages | 165 pp (1991 edition, paperback) |
| Awards |
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| ISBN | 0-380-71232-6 (1991 paperback) |
| LC Class | PZ7.R25416 Sh 1989 |
Shades of Gray is an exciting historical novel written by Carolyn Reeder in 1989. It tells the story of a young boy named Will. The book is set at the very end of the American Civil War. Will, who is twelve years old and an orphan, goes to live with his aunt and uncle.
Will has strong feelings about the war. He thinks his uncle is a coward and a traitor. This is because his uncle refused to join the Confederate army or take any part in the fighting. As the story unfolds, Will begins to understand what true courage really means.
Contents
Exploring Shades of Gray
This book is a great way to learn about life after the American Civil War. It shows how people had different ideas about the war. It also explores how a young person can change their mind.
Meet the Author: Carolyn Reeder
Carolyn Reeder is an American author. She is known for writing historical fiction for young readers. Her books often explore important times in American history. She helps kids understand big events through the eyes of characters their age.
Understanding the American Civil War
The American Civil War was a huge conflict in the United States. It lasted from 1861 to 1865. The war was fought between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy). A main reason for the war was slavery. The South wanted to keep slavery, but the North wanted to end it.
Life in 1865
The year 1865 marked the end of the Civil War. It was a time of big changes for everyone in America. Many people had lost family members or their homes. The country had to figure out how to heal and come back together. This book gives a peek into what that time was like.
Awards and Recognition
Shades of Gray has won several important awards. These awards show that the book is highly respected. They also mean it is a great read for young people.
- The book won the 1989 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction. This award celebrates excellent historical fiction for children.
- It was named an ALA Notable Children's Book. This means it was recognized by the American Library Association.
- In 1990, it received the Jefferson Cup Award. This award is given by the Virginia Library Association.
