Not until Lincoln, the epic blockbuster movie, was Thaddeus Stevens' passion exposed regarding civil rights for black slaves. Until then, few knew Stevens' importance in the passage of the Emancipation Proclamation and the thirteenth and fourteenth amendments to the U.S. Constitution. We applaud Dr. Webb in her efforts to recreate Thaddeus Stevens' youth, here in Vermont, as a way to piece together historical events and his personal life. For any young student who feels unheard; for any student who is described as disabled; for any student whose parentage is different; for any student whose economic status feels disadvantaged, he or she need only look at Thaddeus Stevens. He chose hope over despair, victory over victimhood, and power over helplessness. -Julie Hansen, Director Thaddeus Stevens School, Lyndon Center, Vermont Thaddeus Stevens: The Making of an Inconvenient Hero is an exciting fictional story based on historical fact about "Thad" as a teenager-after his father deserted the family, leaving the family penniless. Brought to life with vivid descriptions and colorful scenes are Thad's character, physical challenges, and the strong opinions and actions he took to help runaway slaves. Dr. Terry Webb writes historical fiction novels for all interested in United States history, and especially for 'tweens and middle school students to learn about American culture and customs. Dr. Webb's academic credentials include a Master's degree in Education and a Doctorate degree in Family and Marriage Counseling/Addiction Intervention. Study modules accompany her books to enhance, enrich, and enlarge reader learning.