The book was first released in 1987 through Troll Associates, later winning the 1988 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction.

All Charley wants is to be like his older brother Johnny, who was killed during the Battle of Gettysburg, so he leaves behind his gang life to join the 140th Regiment.

Ashamed, Charley keeps running and is captured by an enemy soldier but later flees again after gaining a chance to escape.

[3] Reception for Charley Skedaddle was positive,[4][5] with the book receiving the 1988 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction.

The book is utilized in many classrooms,[6] with teachers using it to help inform students about the American Civil War.