The Shot Not Heard Around the World

By Charlie Damitz

$12.00
Order Code: 9132
Class sets 10 or more paperback books: $10.00 each
Class set order code: 9132S

Fourteen-year-old Jeremy is eager to fight the British in the Revolutionary War, but when he comes face to face with a Redcoat, he can’t pull the trigger. The Redcoat, too, refuses to shoot, and so begins the tale of two adversaries who ultimately decide to apprentice under a local doctor. Their skills become necessary when the British try to take Bunker Hill. There, Jeremy finds that he is indeed one of the bravest of the brave, fighting not to take lives but to save them.

Description

Fourteen-year-old Jeremy is eager to do his part to fight the British in the American Revolutionary War. But when he comes face to face with a Redcoat, he sees not the enemy but a man, and he can’t pull the trigger on his musket. The Redcoat, too, refuses to shoot, and the adversaries part ways without incident. Later, however, Jeremy finds that same Redcoat hiding, injured, in his family’s chicken coop. Jeremy takes Roger to the local doctor, where the doctor patches up Roger, and the three arrange for Jeremy and Roger to become apprentices to Doc Thorndike as surgeons’ assistants.

Throughout the story, readers learn the medical practices of the late eighteenth century alongside Jeremy and Roger, many of which, although cutting edge at the time, are now obsolete. But as primitive as those tools and techniques seem now, they saved lives, and their presentation here provides a fascinating glimpse at the evolution of medicine in America.

Ultimately war comes to Jeremy’s doorstep with the battle for Bunker Hill, so the three medics head to the front lines to treat the wounded. It is terrifying and exhausting, but it offers proof to Jeremy that he can contribute to the war effort as one of the bravest of the brave, fighting not to take lives but to save them.

Note: This book contains graphic descriptions of injuries, illnesses, and early medical treatments that may be difficult to handle for sensitive readers.

Details

Ages
11, 12, 13, 14, 15
Grades
6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Formats
iBook, Novel
Pages
86
ISBN
978-0-89824-913-2
Order Code
9132

Testimonials

“In Charlie Damitz’s The Shot Not Heard Around the World, the gripping narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the American Revolution, weaving the poignant tale of Jeremy, a young soldier at the crossroads of duty and morality. Confronted with the moral weight of taking lives on the battlefield, Jeremy undergoes a transformative journey, choosing the path of a healer and becoming a doctor under the guidance of the wise Doc Thorndike.

“The story immerses readers in the turbulent era of the American Revolution, vividly depicting the chaos and brutality of war. Jeremy’s internal struggle becomes a focal point, adding depth to his character and making him a relatable figure navigating the complexities of morality and duty. The narrative explores the profound moral dilemma of war, inviting empathy for Jeremy as he grapples with his internal conflicts.

“The shift from a warrior to a healer emerges as a central theme, with Jeremy’s post-war journey symbolizing not only the physical but also the emotional healing. The novel underscores the importance of compassion and empathy as guiding principles in the face of adversity.

“Supporting characters, particularly Doc Thorndike, play integral roles in shaping Jeremy’s evolution, offering diverse perspectives that enrich the narrative. The novel’s strength lies in its nuanced exploration of the psychological toll of war, seamlessly blending historical accuracy into a thought-provoking narrative.

The Shot Not Heard Around the World by Charlie Damitz is undoubtedly a five-star masterpiece, not only for its exceptional editing and grammatically perfect writing but also for delivering an immersive narrative that seamlessly intertwines history and human emotion. There’s nothing about this book that I could dislike—it’s a literary gem that captivated me from start to finish.

“What I loved most about this book was its ability to evoke a profound emotional connection. The author skillfully brings out the internal struggles of Jeremy, making him a character with depth and authenticity. The exploration of the moral complexities of war is masterfully done, and I found myself empathizing with Jeremy’s journey as he grappled with the weight of his choices.

“The thematic shift from warrior to healer was a poignant element that resonated with me. Jeremy’s decision to become a doctor not only symbolized the physical healing of wounds but also highlighted the importance of compassion and empathy in the face of adversity. The wise guidance of Doc Thorndike added a layer of wisdom to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of characters and relationships.

“Beyond the compelling storyline, Damitz’s meticulous research shone through, creating a vivid and authentic portrayal of the American Revolution. The historical accuracy, combined with the exploration of the human spirit, made this book stand out for me.

“In conclusion, The Shot Not Heard Around the World is a literary triumph. Its exceptional writing, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read. I’m giving it five out of five stars without hesitation—it’s a rare gem in historical fiction that left me with a profound appreciation for the power of storytelling.”

– OnlineBookClub.org (see the review here)

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