The War of 1812 is raging: America has declared war on Britain, and American troops have invaded Canada. Canadians have taken up arms against the invaders, in defense of king and country. In the midst of all this a young boy longs to join the battle.

Tom Roberts, fourteen and too young for army service, is looking after the family farm while his father fights for the British army. Yet Tom wishes for nothing more than to be a part of the action - a wish soon to come true. Stumbling upon some American soldiers attempting to rob the local store, his quick thinking and bravery save the day. His actions also catch the eye of the war's most famous officer, Lieutenant James FitzGibbon, leader of the unit dubbed the Green Tigers or Bully Boys. FitzGibbon takes Tom under his wing and out of harm's way. But Tom's resourcefulness, his knowledge of the countryside and his urge to fight for his country soon lead him, alongside FitzGibbon, into adventures both great and terrible. Tom soon realizes that war is more fascinating - and more horrifying - than he ever imagined.

Based on the true events surrounding the legendary James FitzGibbon and the Battle of Beaver Dams, the Bully Boys is a fast-paced adventure story and a gripping real-life account of war.