"'Eleven is not too young for war,' Ike said to Barfoot, who swished his tail agreeably, then lumbered to the yard table and stuck his nose in an unattended pie."
When a steamboat arrives heralding the news that Iowa has been called up to represent the Union of the United States of America, Ike is beside himself with excitement. For months, the promise of war has enveloped small-town Keokuk like a grand game that everyone's in on—everyone but Ike, his swaybacked pony, and his best friend and checkers partner, Albirdie. Left behind with Mother and the aunts and girl cousins while the Button men march forth toward glory, Ike's fate is sealed. Unless he can call on the ingenuity of his fabled (some say cursed) ancestor—the adventuresome Uncle Palmer—seek passage to Missouri disguised as a drummer boy, and meet up with the Iowa First, that is. But some opportunities are meant to be missed. And some arrive when you least expect them.
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“Ylvisaker’s writing is clear and engaging…Readers will find a lot to relateto and cheer for in Ike, who merely wants to live up to his uncle’s legacy ofadventurous deeds. While not the most original historical fiction book inrecent years, there will be a spot in medium-sized libraries for this sweet,fast-paced story, especially where the previous installments are popular. Theauthor’s note at the end aptly explains the research process and encouragesstudents to discover their own local history.”
— School Library Journal
“Ike Button, eleven and an endearing combination of credulous and cranky, is a high-energy wannabe hero who is constantly getting knocked down. And that’s what makes him such fun…The characters charm, and the material is enhanced by the author’s well-realized rendition of time and place.”
— Kirkus Reviews“Ylvisaker excels at creating a pitch-perfect portrait of small town Midwestern life in 1861, from war games with paper dolls to squabbling over abolition by the ladies of the Soldiers’ Aid Society. Funny, believable, and big hearted.”
— Children’s Literature“Anne Ylvisaker wastes no words; her narrative is charming in its simplicity and entrances the reader by fully immersing them in the time and place.”
— BookPage“Nick Podehl demonstrates masterful narration skills as he balances humor and heart in this historical fiction…Throughout Ike’s adventures, he encounters an eclectic cast of characters, each given a unique voice and personality by Podehl. With excellent pacing and comedic timing, Podehl excels at engaging listeners and making them connect with Ike and the rest of the citizens of Keokuk, Iowa. A fantastic listen for all ages. Winner of the AudioFile Earphones Award.”
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Anne Ylvisaker is the author of The Luck of the Buttons, Dear Papa, and Little Klein. Anne grew up in Iowa and Minnesota and now lives in California.
Nick Podehl is a professional voice actor. He has narrated numerous audiobooks, many of which have won prestigious awards, including fourteen AudioFile Earphones Awards. He currently lives and works around Grand Rapids, Michigan, with his wife.