Rated of 5
by Janice C. (Hayward, CA) The Secret's o Mary Bowser
This an exceptional book. Yes, it did slow down a little in the middle. but still held my interest. It was written with such clarity and love. Mary Bowser was brave extremely brave. I think everyone should read this novel (based on a true story). I am going to recommend this book to the History Teacher at the school where I work part- time. I'm going to suggest ordering a class set. This book made me go back and review Civil War history. i also plan to reread Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Rated of 5
by Linda B. (Sheridan, WY) The Secrets of Mary Bowser
The Secrets of Mary Bowser by Lois Leveen is an interesting look on life in Richmond, Virginia, before and during the Civil War. The book is well written and the characters are fully drawn. Learning about Mary El’s childhood and early life as a slave with her mother in the Van Lew household helps us understand the relationship between the slaves and their masters.
I read a nonfiction Civil War book while reading The Secrets of Mary Bowser. This experience was appealing to me as I read what was happening from the point of view of two armies and two presidents while, at the same time, reading about the everyday life of the citizens of Richmond.
Those who enjoy historical fiction will delight in reading this book.
Rated of 5
by Shirin M. (Beverly Hills, CA) The Secrets of Mary Bowser by Lois Leveen
Based on the true story of Mary Bower, born a slave and freed by her owner’s daughter, she returns to slavery to play a pivotal, albeit secret role in the Union victory. Lois Leveen’s story is a panoramic portrayal of a young African-American woman’s life set against the backdrop of the nineteenth century. The author effectively captures the tone and rhythms of the time in the dialogue and descriptions of people and places. Filled with historical facts, realistic characters, and an eye for social and cultural details, this book is a must read for those who enjoy historical fiction and spy novels. From a human perspective, this story illuminates Paul Dunbar’s poem, “We wear the mask”.
Rated of 5
by Viqui G. (State College, PA) The Secrets of Mary Bowser
This was an intriguing historical fiction based loosely on the life of a black woman, Mary Bowser, who was a spy for the Union during the Civil War. I enjoyed learning about Richmond and the life of slaves and free blacks in a city before and during the war. I was familiar with slavery in plantations and in cotton and rice fields, but not in cities. I think readers will be interested in learning how important spies for the Federals were in the overall effort of winning the war. Although the author had little facts to develop Mary's character, she did a good job of creating a believable and well-rounded woman with opinions and strengths. My one criticism is that too much time was spent on Mary's early life in Richmond and Boston. The novel really became interesting in Book Three during the war years.
Rated of 5
by Carmen S. (Elkins, Arkansas) Great read
This book is even more amazing because its based on a true story. Very informative about the difficult times and hardships of people during that period of time.
Rated of 5
by Margaret L. (Petoskey, MI) A Wonderful History Lesson
This is a story about the life of Mary Bowser, a remarkable women who found the courage to do unthinkable deeds to fight for her beliefs. The author's picturesque style of writing and use of antiquated dialogue takes the readers back to the sights and sounds of the 1800s. I will certainly recommend this book to others....it is a great history lesson for readers of all ages
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News Corp will officially split into two companies June 28(May 24 2013) As expected, News Corp has announced it will officially split its publishing and entertainment businesses on 28 June.
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Its board approved the...
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of 5
by Janice C. (Hayward, CA) 
of 5
by Linda B. (Sheridan, WY) 
