Lincoln’s Flying Spies: Thaddeus Lowe and the Civil War Balloon Corps by Gail Jarrow

Jarrow, Gail, Lincoln’s Flying Spies: Thaddeus Lowe and the Civil War Balloon Corps. Calkins Creek, 2010. INFORMATION.

Did you know that during the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln sent spies up in hot air balloons to spy on the enemy? At the head of the operation was Thaddeus Lowe. For two years during the Civil War, spies would go up in air balloons, count rebel soldiers, detect troop movement, and direct artillery fire from their location. Even after the balloon corps became targets of sabotage and enemy fire, this corps was a valuable tool in the Union army’s war strategy.

A fascinating book filled with information not commonly known about the Union Army. The layout is well-done. The photos greatly enhance the text. The information is well-presented and researched. Fans of war books, army, and military intelligence will enjoy reading this book. EL(4-6), MS. ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library.