The War of 1812 had raged on for more than a year, beginning when America declared war on Great Britain. St. Michaels, Maryland, a tiny town of proud shipbuilders, now finds itself the target of the British fleet snaking its way up the Chesapeake bay in the summer of 1813.

Do any of the townspeople expect to win this fight?

Young Henry Middle wants to help and do his part. Leaving his mother and sister in the safety of their home he bravely sets out to deliver lanterns to his father, who is a member of the town's militia.

Clutching the lanterns while searching for his father amid the chaos, Henry has an idea that may fool the British and might well save this tiny town.

Author Lisa Papp uncovers a story from America's tumultuous past and weaves it into a compelling historical fiction presentation. Paired with her husband Robert's true-to-life illustrations, this story provides a glimpse into "America's second war of independence."

From the dust jacket