First published 2015
Tommy struggles with his grandfather's illness when substitute teacher Rush Revere offers him an unexpected escape. Revere and his magical horse Liberty take Tommy and his Manchester Middle School classmates on a field trip to Washington D.C. They explore the Washington Monument and White House to study American government. Then Liberty transports them back in time to witness the creation of the Star-Spangled Banner. The students watch Dolley Madison rescue an important American symbol during wartime. Tommy documents their adventures in his grandfather's notebook, hoping to share these stories with him. The crew dodges exploding pickle barrels and museum guards while avoiding British soldiers and an unexpected guest. Through these experiences, Tommy discovers how historical moments connect to his own life and family.
Genres: historical-fiction, american, adventure, 21st-century, american-history
Vibes: emotional, thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: found-family, time-travel
Setting: Manchester Middle School, Washington D.C., White House
Period: American Civil War, 21st Century
224 pages · Hardcover · Threshold Editions