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About the Book      Behind Rebel Lines

Behind Rebel Lines is a fast-paced historical novel based on the true story of Emma Edmonds, a young woman who disguised herself as a man to serve as a Union spy during the American Civil War. Under the alias "Frank Thompson," Emma engages in numerous daring espionage missions to gather critical intelligence for the Union Army.

The story begins with Emma's enlistment, highlighting the challenges she faces in maintaining her disguise. As the plot unfolds, readers follow Emma through a series of high-stakes adventures, including infiltrating Confederate camps and risking her life to deliver crucial information. Her bravery and quick thinking not only aid the Union cause but also underscore themes of courage, identity, and perseverance.

Themes in the book Behind Rebel Lines

Courage and Bravery: Emma Edmonds exemplifies immense courage by risking her life and personal safety to contribute to the war effort. The book explores what it means to be brave in the face of adversity.

Identity and Gender: Emma’s decision to disguise herself as a man raises important discussions about gender roles and identity. The book provides a platform for exploring how society's expectations for men and women have evolved over time.

Patriotism and Duty: Emma’s unwavering commitment to her country showcases the theme of patriotism. Her story provides a window into the personal sacrifices made by individuals during the war.

Deception and Espionage: The espionage activities Emma engages in highlight the importance and risks of intelligence work in wartime. This theme can lead to discussions about the ethics and strategies of war.

Activity Ideas for the book Behind Rebel Lines

Character Analysis Essay: Ask students to write essays analyzing Emma Edmonds's character. They should address questions such as: What motivated her to join the war? How did she manage to keep her identity a secret? What qualities made her an effective spy?

Role-Playing and Dramatic Reenactments: Organize role-playing activities where students reenact key scenes from the book. This can help them better understand the emotions and decisions of the characters, fostering empathy and deeper engagement with the text.

Creative Writing Assignment: Have students write a diary entry from Emma’s perspective during a critical moment in the story. This activity can help them delve into her thoughts and feelings, enhancing their comprehension of her experiences.

Debate on Gender Roles: Host a classroom debate on gender roles during the Civil War versus modern times. Students can use Emma Edmonds’s experiences as a starting point to discuss how gender expectations have changed and what challenges remain.

Mapping Emma's Journey: Create a map tracing Emma’s journey throughout the book. Students can mark significant locations and events, providing a visual aid to better understand the geographical and strategic elements of her missions.