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"Leigh Ann's Civil War" by Ann Rinaldi

Author:

Ann Rinaldi

Publisher:

Harcourt

Reviewed by:

Kristine Wildner

Rinaldi, Ann. Leigh Ann’s Civil War  Harcourt, New York, 2009.

A well-researched work of historical fiction, Leigh Ann’s Civil War captures not only the poignant story of the Roswell Mill in Georgia, but also the intensity of the relationships of the prominent fictional Connors family who owns the mill.   Twelve-year-old Leigh Ann Connors has been raised by her two older brothers; her father suffers from mental illness/exhaustion and the eccentric mother is bitterly estranged from the family.  When the war begins, the older brothers serve in the Confederate army, but both are wounded and come home – one to manage the mill, the other as mayor of their small town.  When their plan to save the mill under the auspices of French ownership fails, Leigh Ann, her pregnant sister and sister-in-law are forced north with the other mill employees.

The essence of the story lies in family secrets – their father’s Cherokee heritage, child labor in the mill, clandestine romance and marriage, and mixed allegiance to the South.  Told from Leigh Ann’s point of view, her relationship with her brothers, sister and other characters matures throughout the novel as their once simple lives become complex with changing family roles. The father’s Indian heritage becomes important in the oldest brother’s life and rituals, mystically helping Leigh Ann during her times of greatest danger.  With the exception of the almost magical intervention of her brother’s owl, Leigh Ann and her family’s experiences, conflicts and resolutions accurately reflect the South during the Civil War.  Rinaldi’s first person narrative style enhances the mood of the story and encourages the reader to anticipate change and hope for the future.   Perhaps best suited for historical fiction enthusiasts, the book delves into the personal issues related to war – broken hearts, strained allegiances, etc. – rather than major events.  Critical historical issues are addressed only in passing – child labor, slavery, battles, war crimes, etc., yet there is plenty of adventure to keep the reader invested in Leigh Ann’s story. (author’s note, bibliography) 

Kristine Wildner, Holy Apostles School, New Berlin, WI