Discrimination: Racial Insensitivity/Racism,Discrimination: Sexism,Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco: Alcohol Abuse,Social Issue: Slavery in Historical Context,Violence: War/Harsh Realities of War
Could the Fox sisters actually speak to the dead—or were they frauds?
Rap. Rap. Rap.>/i> The eerie sound was first heard in March of 1848 at the home of the Fox family in Hydesville, New York. The family’s two daughters, Kate and Maggie, soon discovered that they could communicate with the spirit that was making these uncanny noises; he told them he had been a traveling peddler who had been murdered. This strange incident, and the ones that followed, generated a media frenzy beyond anything the Fox sisters could have imagined. Kate and Maggie, managed (or perhaps manipulated) by their elder sister Leah, became famous spirit mediums, giving public exhibitions, and advising other celebrities of their day.
But were the Fox sisters legitimate? In the years that followed their rise, the Civil War killed roughly 1 in 4 soldiers, increasing the demand for contacting the dead. However, media campaigns against the sisters gathered steam as well...
This thrilling and mysterious true story from veteran author Barb Rosenstock (Caldecott Honor winner) will spark teens’ interest in American history, encourage media literacy, and reveal insights into the Civil War era, fake news, and women's rights.
"The Medium's Statement." Author's note. Source notes. Bibliography. Index. Color and black-and-white photographs and reproductions.
Title alpha American Spirits: The Famous Fox Sisters and the Mysterious Fad that Haunted a Nation
Category Nonfiction High Plus
Pages Count 244
Genre Nonfiction
Topics Margaret Fox (1833-1893). Catherine Fox Jencken (1836-1892). A. Leah Underhill (1814-1890). Spiritualism. New York State. US Civil War (1861-1865). Frauds. Hoaxes.
Lexile 1000L
Trim Size 9" x 6"
JLG Span Fall
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2025-04-14
JLG Release Date Aug 2025
Minimum grade 9
Maximum grade 12
Reading level High
Format Print
Nonfiction High Plus (Grades 9 & Up)
Nonfiction High Plus
Nonfiction High Plus (Grades 9 & Up)
For Grades 9 & Up
This collection features engaging nonfiction titles, curated for teen readers who are curious about the world and eager to explore big ideas. Covering topics such as history, science, pop culture, and biography, selections emphasize strong storytelling, thoughtful research, and accessible presentation. Some selections are written for adults but are thoughtfully chosen for their relevance and appeal to teen readers.
14 books per Year
$378.00 per Year
Interests
Nonfiction, Biographies, History, STEAM, Pop Culture
Illustrations/Images: Blood/Gore,Illustrations/Images: Disturbing Imagery,Language: Strong Language,Violence: Gun Violence,Violence: Sexual Assault/Rape,Violence: Torture,Violence: War/Harsh Realities of War