The American Revolution brought years of turmoil to Maryland and its capital city. This story of a family who lived in Annapolis during that period of the nation's history shows the tumultuous times that turned their world upside down. From the burning of the ship Peggy Stewart during the Annapolis tea party to the war's end, the five Sands children and their parents were a part of events that created a new nation. Their story takes readers into the world of 1776 to experience something of what life was like during the Revolutionary War. Ordinary Marylanders played a vital role in winning independence. Many, like twenty-year-old Will Sands, joined the Continental Army. He was among the Maryland men whose brave stand at the Battle of Long Island enabled the rest of the army to continue the fight for independence. Today, Maryland is called the Old Line State in their honor.The World Turned Upside Down is written especially for fourth and fifth graders but can be enjoyed by brothers, sisters, teachers, parents, and grandparents, too. It includes a glossary, maps, and historical background material.