She Would Be a Soldier The Plains of Chippewa   By: M. M. (Mordecai Manuel) Noah (1785-1851)

She Would Be a Soldier: The Plains of Chippewa by M. M. (Mordecai Manuel) Noah, is a captivating historical fiction novel that takes readers on a remarkable journey through the plains of Chippewa during a time of great unrest and conflict.

Set in the early 19th century, the story follows the life of Sarah Cumming, a young woman who defies societal norms and yearns for the life of a soldier. Sarah's journey begins when she disguises herself as a man and enlists in the United States Army. This bold decision opens up a whole new world to her, one filled with adventure and danger.

What sets this book apart is its focus on the portrayal of strong female characters. Sarah Cumming is a courageous and determined protagonist, challenging the limitations placed upon women during this era. Her journey is not only a search for personal freedom and self-discovery, but also a fight to prove her worth in a male-dominated environment.

The author, M. M. Noah, does an excellent job of immersing readers in the historical context of the time period, depicting the harsh realities faced by soldiers fighting on the western frontier. From vivid descriptions of battles and skirmishes to the hardships faced by soldiers in the wilderness, the book provides a realistic and engaging portrayal of life during this tumultuous era.

Additionally, Noah's writing style is captivating, making it easy for readers to relate to the characters and become invested in their struggles. The author's attention to detail is commendable, as is their ability to maintain a steady pace throughout the narrative, keeping readers engaged and eager to turn the pages.

While the book is primarily focused on Sarah's personal journey, it also delves into greater themes such as the exploration of gender roles, the pursuit of personal identity, and the sacrifices made in the name of patriotism. These deeper layers add substance and depth to the story, elevating it beyond a simple adventure tale.

However, it is worth noting that the book does have its slower moments, particularly during certain stretches of exposition and character development. Some readers may find these sections to be slightly less engaging, but they are necessary to fully comprehend the motivations and inner workings of the characters.

Overall, She Would Be a Soldier: The Plains of Chippewa is a well-crafted historical fiction novel that combines elements of adventure, romance, and self-discovery. Through its compelling characters and rich descriptions of the western frontier, the book offers a captivating glimpse into a pivotal era in American history. Whether you're a fan of historical fiction or simply enjoy a well-told story, this book is sure to captivate and leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

Several years after this, he went to Charleston, and studied law, but before he had had a chance to practise, he became the editor of the Charleston City Gazette , and, advocating those principles which resulted in the War of 1812, he used his pen, under the pseudonym of Muley Molack , to disseminate those ideas in editorials. The consequence is he encouraged much hatred, and was forced into many duels to support his opinions... Continue reading book >>