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Tough-O-Meter

We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)

(3) Base Camp

Here's what makes My Brother Sam Is Dead a bit tough: the historical stuff.

Yep. It might be a little tricky to follow all the historical details you don't already know, but it's those details that give the book its adventure and make it a major page-turner. And of course, Shmoop is here to help—check out our guide to the American Revolution if you need a historical refresher.