About the Book In 1863, 12-year-old Danny and his older sister Kathleen arrive in New York City to start a new life, but they soon find themselves navigating through the same prejudices and struggles they experienced in Ireland. Book Synopsis Twelve-year-old Danny OCarolan and his sister, Kathleen, arrive in New York City in 1863, at the height of the Civil War. Kathleen finds a job in domestic service for herself and Danny, hoping to keep Danny from being drafted into the US Army as a drummer boy. As he explores the city and shares his talent for Irish dancing, Danny discovers the vast variety of New Yorks neighborhoods. With the threat of the draft pitting Irish immigrants against the free Black population, stoking tensions between the rich and the poor, and threatening the life Danny hopes to build, can he find a safe place to call home? Review Quotes An excellent addition to any historical fiction collection; recommended for fans of Little Women or A Tree Grows In Brooklyn .-- School Library Journal -- (2/22/2019 12:00:00 AM) An exuberant dash through a pivotal year in American history.--starred, Kirkus Reviews -- (1/10/2019 12:00:00 AM) Textured and well-researched, Parrys latest historical novel brings to life New York City during the peak of the Civil War . . .-- Booklist -- (2/26/2019 12:00:00 AM) Last of the Name is a rich, brave, brawling novel of the immigrant experience, bringing the cacophony of Civil War-era New York City vividly to life. Painstakingly researched, this story of holding on to family and heritage while making a new home in America is told with poetry, humor, and heart.--Susan Fletcher, author of Shadow Spinner , Walk Across the Sea , and Journey of the Pale Bear -- (8/24/2018 12:00:00 AM) Civil War New York springs to life with danger, humor, and grit. You can feel the dance steps as a young immigrants family traditions bring him strength and connection in a challenging new world. Historical fiction with a strong resonance today.--Emily Whitman, author of The Turning -- (8/13/2018 12:00:00 AM) With loving attention to detail, Rosanne Parry recreates Civil War-era New York City and the struggles of intrepid Irish immigrants. More than a survival story, Last of the Name is a celebration of the power of music and family to sustain us through hard times. Truly a grand adventure!--Deborah Hopkinson, author of How I Became a Spy: A Mystery of WWII London -- (8/13/2018 12:00:00 AM)