Gunpowder Warrior

A Civil War Adventure for Young Readers

A nation divided. A friendships tested.

A powerful journey through history.

Boys caught in a mans war.

Book cover

Amid the roar of cannons and the crack of muskets, there were heroes whose names never made it into history books.

The exciting adventures of a real-life powder monkey during the American Civil War

James Machon, born in 1848, grew up on ships. During the Civil War, he was a Powder Monkey in the US Navy on the U.S.S Brooklyn.
Amidst rebel gunboats stationed in the immediate vicinity of the cannon fire, he ran from the hold to the deck carrying gunpowder to the men.  Cannons and firearms continued shooting at the Brooklyn, and several of James’s friends were killed during the battle.






Can James survive the chaos he finds himself in on board the U.S.S. Brooklyn during attacks against Fort Morgan?

Does James have the courage to remain steadfast at his post and perform his duties during furious action? Can his ship and the seventeen others in their fleet capture Fort Morgan, or are they destined to drown amidst cannon fire and chaos when James’s ship, the Brooklyn, is rammed by the C.S.S Tennessee?

This exciting adventure will keep you wanting more of the Teen Warrior Series by Kellie May.


What's Inside

Based on true stories from the US Civil War
Kid-friendly historical adventures
Brave, real young heroes
Aligns with US History Curriculum
Remembering young patriots.
History’s battles weren’t just fought by grown men.

Perfect for Young Readers

If your kids enjoy these, they'll love this book

Historical facts for kids Civil War adventures Middle grade chapter books. Stories about courage American history The role of powder monkeys Informative Young heroes Suitable for readers 9 - 14

Editorial Reviews

"5.0 out of 5 stars great use of action and adventure Reviewed in the United States on July 24, 2023 This reminded me a lot of what I enjoyed from the Dear America series and the spinoffs, each book was a great introduction to the person. It used a great use of action and adventure. I appreciated getting to know James Machon and I’m so glad I got to learn about him. It was well written and thought it worked. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review."

— Kathryn McLeer

"Another author bringing history alive Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2024 Format: Kindle A quick read in the vein of the My Name Is America series, although not presented in diary format. This chronicles the history of a young man assigned to a Union naval vessel for the breadth of the Civil War. Even in the short story, the characters are well developed and relatable in their everyday moments. The images enhance the story, displaying historical scenes to assist the imagination."

— C.S

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Some stories are written in history books.

Others are written in the hearts of the brave.

Part history. Part heart. All true.Perfect for curious minds ages 9–14