A 15-year-old white teen from Illinois journeys alongside a regiment of Black Union soldiers in a novel that artfully combines satire with historical events. Welcome to “How to Dodge a Cannonball,” where the Civil War gets a playful twist from the creative mind of Dennard Dayle.

A Young Perspective in a Divided Time

In “How to Dodge a Cannonball,” the protagonist, an exuberant young flag twirler, embodies the contrasting innocence and bravery overshadowed by a nation’s conflict. The novel brings forth the unique interactions and the unexpected camaraderie he builds with the soldiers, reflecting both the absurdities and the profound realities of war.

Satirical Insights into History

Dennard Dayle weaves satire brilliantly through this coming-of-age story, highlighting how the war’s chaos offers both comedy and tragedy seen through youthful eyes. By attaching a seemingly out-of-place young boy to a regiment conditioned for hardship, Dayle accentuates the peculiarities of war and the social dynamics of the era.

Peeling Back Layers of Society

While the story brings laughter, it also asks the reader to consider racial and societal issues that resonate even today. Through a humorous yet critical lens, Dayle navigates themes of identity, allegiance, and humanity in the midst of historical upheaval.

Behind the Novel

Author Dennard Dayle shares his thoughts with NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe, offering insights into the creative process behind delivering a narrative that cleverly contrasts the grim backdrop of the Civil War with moments of levity. According to NPR, the imaginative storytelling serves as both entertainment and education.

Experience History Reimagined

“How to Dodge a Cannonball” invites you to traverse the familiar era of civil unrest with an unconventional guide. Whether driven by historical curiosity or the desire for a fresh literary experience, readers are in for a riotous and reflective journey.

Delve into an unexpected exploration of an iconic period, and find out how one teenager’s ambitions can shift the narrative we often take for granted.