Spy in the Shadows

During the time of the Fenian raids of 1866-67, 13-year-old Liam O'Brien is faced with a terrible question of loyalty. Does his loyalty lie with the Hahns, a Canadian family who took him in when his father died, or with his cousin, Patrick, and the Ireland of his childhood. It's not an easy decision. Liam doesn't feel wanted or loved by Mr. Hahn, the father of his adopted family. His cousin, Patrick, on the other hand, rouses Liam's passionate nature with memories of his father, who was once an Irish rebel. Liam's epiphany occurs when he realizes that by helping Patrick, he is in fact endangering the lives of the people who gave him a home when he was left alone in the world. Liam doesn't have much time to undo the damage that has already been done. Historical fiction allows kids a unique view of the past. The events take on a personal significance when seen through the eyes of a character their own age. Liam's dilemma brings the drama of the Fenian raids alive, and kids will be caught up in the suspense of Liam's attempts to avert tragedy.