Drummer

George Richardson's Drummer is a young adult historical fiction novel set during the American Civil War. A young slave, Johnny Jackson, escapes and runs to a Union infantry unit when he learns they are camped only five miles north of the Confederate rebels. He befriends a young white drummer, and marches with the Union Army back to Frederick, Maryland, but is not allowed to join the white unit as a drummer. His disappointment gives way to more perils on a hazardous journey to Baltimore, with his freedom always in jeopardy, until he succeeds in joining the First Pennsylvania Colored Infantry and becomes a drummer for Company A. Johnny's battles and travails are destined to change his life in this powerful, adventurous, and sobering read which is very highly recommended for teenage and young adult readers.

This is an excellent story. As a former teacher, I have made some recommendations to my old colleagues to try and integrate this book into their curriculum. Mr Richardson uses excellent imagery to help spur the imagination and place the reader in another time and place. At no point does he "talk down" to the reader (target audience is younger teens?) which encourages the younger reader to keep turning the pages! I would highly recommend this book and plan to send copies to all of the relatives (young teens) for the holidays.

I found this book to be very interesting as a parent. My Son could not but it down. When you can get any child not wanting to put a book down you have found a key that you should build on. Mr. Richardson did a wonderful job of letting your minds eye see what it was like to be in that time period. I do hope he keeps writing about this wonderful young man. I can't wait to read more about him. Thank you Mr. Richardson for helping my child to love to read.

I am a children's book author. I read "Drummer" to see the techniques and styles another author used to write his book. From the story description, it seemed like a good book. I enjoyed reading "Drummer," which a vivid imagination and good storytelling ability on the part of the author, resulted in a good story.Johnny Jackson, a young slave, is the main character. I found him to be likable as I read about his adventures. The other characters have unique personalities. The characters are realistic and well developed."Drummer" would be easy to read for most young readers. While I do not know if the historical details in the book are correct, the story seemed very real and kept my interest. I didn't feel like skipping parts of the story to "get it over with." Between chapters, I wondered what would happen next and how the book would end. The plot wasn't predictable. Unlike some other books, I was not confused by too many characters.Assuming the historical information in the book is correct, the story provides a fun way for young readers to learn a little of the history of the American Civil War and the situation of African-Americans during the time period.If a young reader is looking for a good book to read, check this one out. I believe you'll be glad you read "Drummer" also. Don't miss this one!Definitely two thumbs up! Great book George!....