Fortitude

Fortitude
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Publisher
Age Range
12+
Release Date
January 05, 2016
ISBN
978-0996682763
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Growing up with a Creole best friend, sixteen-year-old Claire O’Farrell held little regard for the Jim Crow laws and the consequences of befriending those of a different color. But once she leaves the haven of her home on Dauphin Island, the reality of racial intolerance can no longer be ignored. Though she’s underage, Claire makes the bold decision to serve alongside Loretta, her best friend, in the “colored camp” hospital tents during the Spanish-American War, but her idealistic attitude and choice of working location immediately puts her in danger. Claire gives her heart to a soldier in the camp, only to find herself caught in the racial violence besieging the area. When the intolerant attitudes and stigma follow her home, she clings to her faith to navigate through her social isolation and find the path she was meant to travel.

Growing up with a Creole best friend, sixteen-year-old Claire O’Farrell held little regard for the Jim Crow laws and the consequences of befriending those of a different color. But once she leaves the haven of her home on Dauphin Island, the reality of racial intolerance can no longer be ignored. Though she’s underage, Claire makes the bold decision to serve alongside Loretta, her best friend, in the “colored camp” hospital tents during the Spanish-American War, but her idealistic attitude and choice of working location immediately puts her in danger. Claire gives her heart to a soldier in the camp, only to find herself caught in the racial violence besieging the area. When the intolerant attitudes and stigma follow her home, she clings to her faith to navigate through her social isolation and find the path she was meant to travel.

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3 reviews
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Engaging Historical Fiction
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I thought the idea of a white girl, Claire--not only being best friends with a Creole, Loretta--but whose aunt was employed by the family turned a stereotypical trope upside down. After all, this story takes place in the South during Jim Crow laws. I love that feisty Irish Claire didn't even see the color of folks' skin, but what was on the inside. This tolerance--and more importantly--acceptance is an important message for young readers today. Even though Claire got in trouble at the camp because of Jim Crow laws and suffered from intolerant social isolation once home, she stuck to her beliefs and people who were truly important-- not society as a whole, big, scary thing that it can be when it's against you.
Good Points
Interesting friendship. Strong characters. Wonderful message of acceptance. Swoon-worthy Joe ;)
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Hooked me on historical fiction.
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I had never really read a historical fiction, but this one was awesome. I'm so glad a friend recommended this book to me. The characters and setting were so realistic. My children will also be reading this book when they hit this point in history.
Good Points
Great Historical Fiction. Wonderful Characters. Deep and Emotional Plot.
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Inspirational Love Story
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I'm usually not a fan of historical fiction, but I'm always a fan of beautiful writing with characters that steal my heart. This book has just the right mix of facts about the Buffalo Soldiers and black volunteers in the Spanish-American War as well as the horrendous Jim Crow laws that polluted the South for much too long, blended perfectly with an emotional story of faith, forbidden love, and the kind of honor that lives on and on and is never forgotten. Although there's plenty of happiness in this book, it's certainly not all sweetness and light. But the ending is completely satisfying and left my heart filled with hope and joy.
Good Points
Very well researched and historically accurate.
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