"Young readers will identify with the main characters and see the Civil War from a child's point of view. Bannister's well-written novella fosters the all-important theme of reconciliation."
-Leah Wood Jewett, exhibitions coordinator, U.S. Civil War Center

For Johnny, Jody, and Sally, the bustling little river town of Port Hudson, nestled in the heart of Louisiana farm country, is the only home they know. But now, their livelihood is threatened by the outbreak of the Civil War.

Countrymen soon take up arms against one another-some wearing coats of blue and some coats of gray-each fighting for his beliefs. So the boys and Sally try to maintain a sense of normalcy by visiting their childhood hideout at the old mill and stocking supplies, just in case their worst fears do come true. Then, they witness a group of bluecoats hide a small leather bag. The contents of the bag compel Johnny, Jody, and Sally to embark on a perilous mission full of surprises.

Bittersweet and reminiscent of a dark period in our nation's history, A Coat of Blue and a Coat of Gray is a tale of adventure and loyalty-loyalty to cause, to a way of life, and to good friends, whether bluecoats or gray.