Behind Rebel Lines: The Incredible Story of Emma Edmonds, Civil War Spy

Seymour Reit, the creator of Casper the friendly ghost, blends fact with fiction in this captivating tale about one woman who dared to go behind enemy lines as a spy for the Union Army.  

Canadian-born Emma Edmonds loved the thrill of adventure and chasing freedom, so in 1861 when the Civil War began, she enlisted in the Union Army. 

With cropped hair and men’s clothing, Emma transformed herself into a peddler, slave, bookkeeper and more, seamlessly gathering information and safely escaping each time. 

This fictionalized biography about the daring exploits of a cunning master of disguise, risking discovery and death for the sake of freedom, will inspire readers for generations to come. 

“The story is fast-moving, and Emma’s spunk...is evident.”—Kirkus Reviews

“This stranger-than-fiction story will captivate history buffs and hold the attention of the most reluctant reader.”—Bank Street College of Education

“A suspense-filled account of a brave and loyal feminist.”—Booklist