The Magic Tree House series is a beloved children's book series written by Mary Pope Osborne. One of the many exciting adventures in this series is titled "Civil War on Sunday." Jack and Annie, the main characters of the series, find themselves transported back in time to the American Civil War. They end up in Virginia during the year 1863, right in the middle of a battlefield. They witness the devastating effects of war firsthand and soon find themselves caught up in the middle of it all. As they explore the area, they meet General Ulysses S.
As they explore the area, they meet General Ulysses S. Grant, one of the key figures of the Civil War. He asks for their help in delivering a message to a spy in enemy territory.
Alice and Greta
Steven J. Simmons is the author of the best-selling children's book, Alice and Greta: A Tale of Two Witches. He was inspired to write the story while playing with his children on a hill behind his home. In an interview on "The Today Show," Steven said that he felt a "spontaneous combustion" as the story took shape in his mind. He visits schools and reads his stories to many classrooms full of eager listeners.
Read more about Steven J. Simmons.
Cyd Moore, illustrator
Cyd Moore was born in Georgia but has lived in Michigan for many years. After graduating from the University of Georgia, she worked as a graphic designer for television, advertising, and newspaper publishing. You might also have seen her art on McDonald's Happy Meal boxes, games, and magazines. But her real passion is illustrating children's books and so far, she has over 40 published titles, including the best selling I Love You Stinky Face series.
Read more about Cyd Moore.
- IRA/CBC Children's Choice
- Publishers Weekly Cuffies
Kirkus Reviews
The effects of artistic license become clear in this picture book from Simmons, who shows what happens to two witches who attend the same school, and are taught the same lessons, but find widely different uses for their craft. Alice's bucolic perch on a mountain has a sign that says "Welcome!" while Greta's sign warns, "Keep Away!" Butterflies and bluebirds attend one child-witch, buzzards and bats the other. When school's out, the stage is set: Alice conjures a wave for a family whose boat is stranded on a sandbar, while Greta conjures a similar wave to wash away a child's sandcastle. More examples of their opposing worldviews follow, but most readers will get the point, and it may be the simple predictability of the plot they will enjoy most. By the time Greta gets her comeuppance-she was not in school the day the most important of witchy lessons was taught, a take on the old what-goes-around-comes-around chestnut-readers will be anticipating the punishment, but not Alice's reward. As a result of all her good deeds, her view from the hill is getting better and better," with levitating children bearing thank-you notes, cookies, and flowers. Moore has a style like Lynn Musinger's, with charmingly detailed watercolors that endlessly tinker with the symmetry of the tale - e.g. the bats have come to Alice's side in the last scene.
The Midwest Book Review
Alice and Greta is a delightful tale of two very different witches. While Alice and Greta both live on the same mountain top, they are exact opposites. Alice is always trying to do good deeds, while Greta is always trying to perform destructive ones. Alice and Greta is an engaging book featuring colorful illustrations. It teaches the lesson of right from wrong and uniquely reuses the saying, "What goes around comes around." This is a story where a little bit of magic and a lot of heart is sometimes all you need to get out of a sticky situation.
Jack and Annie eagerly accept the mission, knowing that the outcome of the war may depend on their success. Throughout their adventure, Jack and Annie learn about the harsh realities of war. They witness injured soldiers, experience the fear and chaos of battle, and realize the importance of bravery and sacrifice. They also learn about the bravery of everyday people who played important roles in the war, such as Harriet Tubman and Clara Barton. Mary Pope Osborne skillfully weaves historical facts into a fictional story, educating young readers about the American Civil War in an engaging way. As with every book in the Magic Tree House series, "Civil War on Sunday" manages to entertain, educate, and inspire its readers. By the end of their adventure, Jack and Annie not only successfully deliver the message but also gain a deeper understanding of the importance of peace and the impact of war. As they return to the present day, they carry with them the lessons they learned in the past. Overall, "Civil War on Sunday" is an exciting and educational addition to the Magic Tree House series. It introduces young readers to a significant period in American history while also teaching valuable lessons about empathy, bravery, and the power of knowledge..
Reviews for "A Civil War Journey with the Magic Tree House: Learning and Adventure Combined"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Magic Tree House: Civil War". I have been a fan of this series for a while, but this book just didn't live up to my expectations. The storyline was dull and predictable, and the characters lacked depth. Overall, it felt like a rushed and half-hearted attempt at a historical adventure. I would not recommend this book to other fans of the series.
2. Sarah - 3 stars - As a long-time reader of the Magic Tree House series, I had high hopes for "Civil War". Unfortunately, I found it to be lacking in excitement and originality. The plot felt repetitive and recycled, and the historical elements were not as engaging as in previous books. While the book had its moments, overall, it fell short of capturing my attention and left me wanting more. Not the best installment in the series, in my opinion.
3. Michael - 2.5 stars - I found "Magic Tree House: Civil War" to be a subpar addition to the series. The characters seemed flat and one-dimensional, and the dialogue felt forced and unnatural. The historical aspect, which is usually a highlight of these books, also fell short. The Civil War setting lacked depth and failed to truly transport me to that time period. I was left feeling underwhelmed and unsatisfied after reading this book.