Pajama Press

The 200th anniversary of Laura Secord’s famous walk is June 22nd, 2013. With this date fast approaching, SmartGIRL WORKs interviewed author Connie Brummel Crook (Acts of Courage: Laura Secord and the War of 1812) to talk about this Canadian heroine and what it was like to writer her story.

Here is a sneak preview:

“When I was teaching, I noticed that there were many fine, contemporary books about a  number of teenagers’ present-day problems in our classrooms, but very little about our own Canadian heroes. Americans celebrate their heroes. Why shouldn’t we? So I have been writing historical fiction novels since I took early retirement from teaching. ”

Click here to read the full interview.

“By staying true to Laura’s undertaking while adding an interesting twist (fictional, of course), Connie Brummel Crook has taken this book from biography to historical fiction with an “Aha!” moment or two.

…[N]o subplot or component of the story is gratuitous, each important in explaining and moving the plot to Laura’s climactic walk, probably best described as a combination trudge, plod, wade, slog and creep.  Luckily Connie Brummel Crook’s telling of Laura Secord’s story lacks the toil and anguish of our heroine’s defining moment and instead takes the reader through Laura’s life’s journey to better understand the choices and connections she has made throughout.”

–Helen Kubiw

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“Acts of Courage made me want to go dig up more information, which is surely a goal of history writers everywhere – to inspire interest in what really happened.  In that sense, a rousing success!

…to people who think Canadian history is boring – this book will change your mind.”–Lindsey Carmichael

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“Laura Secord in Acts of Courage: Laura Secord and the War of 1812, is brought to life as a determined ‘Little Red Riding Hood’, adventurous, curious, robust, generous and courageous, taking risks to help the ones she loves—mainly family and country. Connie Brummel Crook has created an exceptional account of what would or could have been Laura Secord’s life. She depicts vivid landscapes and interiors of the 19^thcentury with exquisite imagery…

…In Acts of Courage: Laura Secord and the War of 1812, Connie Brummel Crook creates an awe inspiring infatuation with Laura Secord, through richly descriptive period imagery, plot motion, language and sequences that are fitting for both 19^th century and present day readers. The interweaving of both fictitious and real characters is executed seamlessly, with cleverly woven twists and an unexpected conclusion.

A love story, with war, passion, humanity; it is a dynamic and fascinating story that demonstrates the implacable resolve of women in that period. It is something that can be admired by all.”

Written from a Canadian perspective, this well-researched and -documented historical novel offers young readers a fascinating perspective on the events following the American Revolution and leading up to the War of 1812… The author tells a good story and presents some fascinating and little-known history (including such issues as slavery, economics, and social justice) in an interesting way. A historical note, sources and maps supplement the account. An opportunity for American children to see a little-known war through a rarely considered lens.

“Given her knowledge of the subject, it’s not surprising that Crook’s attention to detail and setting is excellent, providing the reader with insight into the social and political situations of the time….the story provides an opportunity to see Secord’s resourcefulness, compassion, and independent spirit on full display.”

“Readers of all ages like to learn new things while they are being entertained and will appreciate Crook’s care and skill in painting a detailed, fascinating picture of Laura’s times. Acts of Courage, an accurate, accessible novel, is timely for bicentennial anniversary of the War of 1812”.

Click here to read full review.