The Civil War of Amos Abernathy

By Michael Leali

A boy uncovers hidden LGBTQ+ history, challenging his town's views.

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,032 ratings

304 pages

$16.99Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Amos Abernathy, a passionate historical reenactor, discovers a hidden chapter of LGBTQ+ history when a new volunteer arrives at his Living History Park. As he learns about Albert D. J. Cashier, a Civil War soldier who might have been a trans man, Amos begins writing letters to his friend and devises a plan to share Albert's story with his divided town. Will Amos succeed in bringing this forgotten history to light and bridge the gap in his community? Join Amos on his heartfelt journey of discovery, identity, and first crushes.

From the publisher

A heartfelt debut novel about a boy’s attempt to find himself in the history he loves–perfect for fans of Dear Sweet Pea and From the Desk of Zoe Washington.Amos Abernathy lives for history. Literally. He’s been a historical reenactor nearly all his life. But when a cute new volunteer arrives at his Living History Park, Amos finds himself wondering if there’s something missing from history: someone like the two of them.Amos is sure there must have been LGBTQ+ people in nineteenth-century Illinois. His search turns up Albert D. J. Cashier, a Civil War soldier who might have identified as a trans man if he’d lived today. Soon Amos starts confiding in his newfound friend by writing letters in his journal–and hatches a plan to share Albert’s story with his divided twenty-first century town. It may be an uphill battle, but it’s one that Amos is ready to fight.Told in an earnest, hilarious voice, this love letter to history, first crushes, and LGBTQ+ community will delight readers of Ashley Herring Blake, Alex Gino, or Maulik Pancholy.