The Story of Civil War Hero Robert Smalls

2021 Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Books of the YearCybils Awards 2020 Finalist: Elementary NonfictionThis exciting entry in Lee & Low's "Story of" line of chapter-book biographies introduces readers to Robert Smalls, an enslaved steamboat wheelman who commandeered a Confederate boat during the Civil War and escaped with his family, crew, and their families to freedom.Growing up enslaved in South Carolina, Robert Smalls always dreamed of the moment freedom would be within his grasp. Now that moment was here.Robert stood proudly at the Planter's wheel. Only seven miles of water lay between the boat and the chance of freedom in Union territory. With precision nd amazing courage, he navigated past the Confederate forts in the harbor and steered the boat toward the safely of the Union fleet. Just one miscalculation would be deadly, but for Robert, his family, and his cremates, the risk was worth taking.The Story of Ciil War Hero Robert Smalls is the competing account of the daring escape of Robert Smalls, an enslaved steamboat wheelman who became one of the Civil War's greatest heroes. His steadfast courage in the face of adversity is an inspiring model for all who attempt to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. This chapter book edition includes black-and-white illlustratios as well as sidebars on related subjects, a timeline, a glossary, and recommended reading.