This book is riveting as Emma's words penetrate deeply into this reader's conscienceness . The courage displayed by Emma Edmonds (born Sarah Emma Edmonds). At an early age, Emma learned how to survive the onslaughts of an abusive father. She learned about courage born out of love when her mother helped her flee her home to start an odyssey born out of love for another and her imagination to explore the world. As a Canadian who fled to the United States, she masterfully disguised her gender to serve proudly in the Union Army. All the while living in fear of "discovery," she nursed wounded soldiers, faced death daily, contracted malaria, served as a spy, and served until she felt "led" to leave, her mission accomplished. Her battle to maintain her honor and clear the pseudonym under which she served also captures the reader. This book is must read for women historians, nurses - both in and out of the military, civil war historians, or anyone with an interest in lived experiences and human nature. ( )