One Came Home

American author Amy Timberlake writes for young readers, often blending mystery and social commentary against the backdrop of both historical and contemporary settings. Her work centers young protagonists who confront the limitations placed on them by their age and environments. Timberlake holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in creative writing. She lives in Chicago with her husband. 

One Came Home exemplifies Timberlake’s attention to historical detail as she portrays young protagonist Georgie’s view of her world and the complexity of girlhood in post–Civil War times. In keeping with her age, Georgie doesn’t fully grasp the romantic motives behind her sister Agatha’s decisions; additionally, Georgie also wants things to go her way, hoping that Agatha will always stay at home so Georgie’s world isn’t upended by change. The book also depicts the societal pressures young women faced at the time, such as Agatha’s need to ask her grandfather for money and permission, as well as how she is expected to contribute to the family by finding a husband. Similarly, while Georgie is only 13 years old, she views Billy (who is 19) as a viable marriage option, showing how societal expectations force her to concern herself with marriage while she is still a child.