Last Updated on May 5, 2015, by eNotes Editorial. Word Count: 79

Jeff Bussey, the main character of Rifles for Watie, learns about the cruelty, destructiveness, and waste that war creates. Few readers realize the intensity of the Civil War battles waged west of the Mississippi River, and this novel examines the issues, weapons, and strategies involved in the western campaigns. All the characters, whether admirable or evil, are believable, and Jeff Bussey's courage, perseverance, loyalty, and consideration for others make him an inspiring role model for readers of all ages.