Pleasant Hill Press is excited to announce the publication of “John Bradford’s Slingshot,” the first young adult book from author Jim Wayne set for release on Oct. 30, 2026. The book is written for middle school-aged readers and tells the story of a young boy living at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill during the Civil War who seeks revenge on the soldier who killed his father. The book explores questions of violence and forgiveness at the time of the 1862 Battle of Perryville in Kentucky.

All proceeds from sales of the book go to support Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, Kentucky’s largest National Historic Landmark. Shaker Village has secured a grant from US Foods to provide copies of the book to regional Kentucky middle schools, and to host field trips to the Village to learn about Kentucky’s Civil War history and the Shaker way of life.

“I am thrilled to have my children’s novel published by Pleasant Hill Press. My hope is that the book will impress on children the rich history of the Shaker community, the tragedy of war and the power of forgiveness,” said Wayne.

The book is illustrated by Kentucky artist Tony Richardson who specializes primarily in graphite and oil and has a particular interest in historical subjects.

The 155-page book will be available to purchase at Shaker Village along with online retailers. For more information about classroom books and field trips please contact Shaker Village at info@shakervillageky.org.