To the Front!

Texas Library Association Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List
Eureka! Nonfiction Silver Honor Award (California Reading Association)

★ ”In this riveting tribute to the ‘Angel of the Battle-field,’ Friddell mixes incantatory lyrics with matter-of-fact quotes from Barton…to capture a powerful sense of the battle’s fearful carnage and the courage required to plunge into it…An extended afterword that includes photos and further quotations adds biographical details and highlights Barton’s…fervent support for both women’s suffrage and equal pay. Readers moved to learn more about this admirable figure will be well served by the closing list of resources.” —Booklist, starred review

★ ”Beautifully illustrated by Christopher Cyr, this picture book captures the ‘Angel of the Battlefield’ with realism and power. Cyr is a master at showing contrast between light and darkness, conveying Barton’s ability to be an agent of hope in the midst of despair…using repetition in the poetic text, emphasis is placed on Clara’s hands, her curious observations, and the endless cannon fire of the deadliest battle in American military history… a brilliant introduction to the Civil War for students of any age and demonstrates how one determined person can make a world of difference.” —School Library Connection, starred review

“The story is told largely in Clara [Barton’s] own clear and compelling words, augmented with concise and poetic third-person text. Soft-edge, digitally painted illustrations make great use of light, shadow, and perspective; they represent the story faithfully, including the surgeon’s ominous tools… A vivid window into a few bloody and exhausting days shows Barton’s unflinching bravery and inexhaustible dedication to helping those around her. Recommended.” —School Library Journal