Journey Into Darkness: A Gripping Civil War Tale for Young Readers by J. Arthur Moore – Featured at the 2025 ALA Conference

Maple Leaf Publishing is proud to announce that Journey Into Darkness: A Story in Four Parts by J. Arthur Moore will be featured at the 2025 American Library Association (ALA) Conference in Philadelphia, taking place from June 27-30, 2025. The book will be represented at the event, providing publishers, distributors, librarians, and book industry professionals with an exclusive opportunity to explore this powerful historical narrative. Journey Into Darkness offers a unique, emotionally resonant view of the Civil War through the eyes of a young boy, appealing to students, educators, and history enthusiasts alike.

A Powerful Story of War Through a Child’s Eyes

In a war where over 250,000 boys aged seventeen and younger were engaged in combat, Journey Into Darkness tells the story of Duane Kinkade, a young boy who is thrust into the chaos of the Civil War when raiders attack his family farm, leaving his mother dead and the boy seriously wounded. This carefully researched blend of fact and fiction immerses readers in the harrowing experiences of a peer, creating an accessible narrative for young readers while maintaining historical accuracy. Written specifically for middle-grade readers, the book’s four parts were initially published in response to a request from a young reader who wanted shorter books, perfect for students who shy away from lengthy novels.

The series provides an invaluable resource for American history classes, offering a boy’s-eye view of the war, reminding students that their peers were caught in the conflict, enduring its hardship and loss. Whether in a classroom or at home, this book presents a gateway for young readers to engage with history in a way that is both relatable and impactful.

A Tale That Resonates Across Generations

What truly sets Journey Into Darkness apart is its emotional core, which transcends age. Though it is a historical fiction piece, its themes of loss, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit resonate with readers of all generations. Through Duane’s perspective, readers of all ages experience the Civil War in a deeply personal way, making this book not just a history lesson, but a compelling narrative that pulls at the heartstrings.

The book’s impact has been significant, receiving praise for its historical accuracy, rich storytelling, and ability to engage young readers with the complexities of the Civil War. The series has been lauded by educators and parents alike, who see it as an essential tool for bringing history to life in classrooms across the country.

“I highly recommend this series of four historical novels,” said Paul Sanborn, historian for the Freedoms Foundation Award, in his letter nominating Journey Into Darkness for the award, which it later received. “They are an important way of preserving our national heritage and bringing it to life for the students in our schools. Readers can relate to Duane Kinkade’s experiences, seeing the Civil War through the eyes of a young boy.”

This endorsement helped Journey Into Darkness earn the prestigious Freedoms Foundation Award, further cementing its place as a powerful educational tool and an important literary achievement.

Meet the Author: J. Arthur Moore – A Passion for History and Storytelling

J. Arthur Moore is an award-winning author whose dedication to history and storytelling has made a significant impact in the literary world. With over four decades of experience in education, Moore has become renowned for his ability to craft stories that are both historically accurate and emotionally engaging. His other works, including Blake’s Story, West to Freedom, and Summer of Two Worlds, all reflect his commitment to creating compelling, historically rich narratives that resonate deeply with readers.

Drawing on his personal experiences, passion for Civil War history, and his background in education, Moore has created a legacy of storytelling that bridges the gap between history and modern readers. Journey Into Darkness is a direct result of Moore’s collaboration with young readers, who voiced the need for a historical novel that spoke to their experiences and interests.

“My inspiration comes from the boys who were part of the Civil War—boys just like Duane,” says Moore. “Through their stories, we can connect with the past and learn valuable lessons about resilience, sacrifice, and survival that continue to be relevant today.”

An Opportunity to Discover and Acquire

Maple Leaf Publishing is excited to present Journey Into Darkness at the 2025 ALA Conference in Philadelphia. Publishers, distributors, and librarians seeking an engaging and educational title for young readers will find this book to be a valuable addition to their collections. The book’s focus on a child’s perspective of a major historical event offers a unique lens for understanding the Civil War, making it an excellent choice for history-focused education programs.

For readers who can relate to Duane’s story, this novel offers an opportunity to engage with a piece of history in a way that is both accessible and emotionally compelling.

For more information about J. Arthur Moore and Journey into Darkness, as well as opportunities for distribution, consignment, or rights acquisition, visit the Maple Leaf Publishing booth at the 2025 ALA Conference or contact the author directly through his website at www.jarthurmoore.com.

Contact Information

Maple Leaf Publishing Inc.

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