Signs of the American Revolutionary War

The story of The Fighting Ground takes place in 1778 in the midst of the American Revolutionary War. The protagonist is thirteen-year-old Jonathan who lives on a farm in a rural area of New Jersey. Jonathan is hoping to hear news that General George Washington has recaptured Trenton, NJ. A tavern in the small near-by town has become the recruiting station for the area. When the tavern owner sounds a large bell, it is a call to arms.

Jonathan's father fought in the war and incurred serious injury to his leg. Jonathan wants to join the fight, but his father will not give him permission. He claims that he needs Jonathan's help around the farm because it's difficult for him to get around with his bad leg. In reality, his father fears for Jonathan's safety. His older brother joined the army a year earlier...