It's 1863, and the War Between the States has been dragging on for two years. 'Almost' ten-year-old Clem Johnson, and his little terrier mix, Shags, are eager to join the Confederate army, and teach "them Yankees" a lesson. However, the only position open is that of drummer boy. But Clem doesn't want to be a drummer boy. He wants to fight . . . to become a hero. But how can you become a hero if everyone thinks you're too young to fight?