Scan barcode
yojimbo96's review against another edition
informative
reflective
medium-paced
3.0
When it is not bogged down by troop movements, this book is an interesting look at Stonewall Jackson’s life. It would be better if if dove deeper into his beliefs on slavery, the Union, religion, etc. While there is some explanation of his beliefs there is not enough to call this book a proper redemption. Despite that, it is still worth the read.
wdudley89's review
4.0
I learned a tremendous amount from this book. I especially enjoyed the sections devoted to understanding Jackson's distinctive character. Some stretches describing the unfolding of battles were, although well-written, overly detailed for me. This prevented the book from being one that I couldn't put down, but I still recommend it. I intend to read this author's book on the Comanche, which is also highly regarded.
carriebethreads's review
5.0
Much of my understanding of the Civil War has been shaped by the political flames of modern culture . That is a mistake, and one I’m working to correct. Was slavery abhorrent and evil, yes. Did everyone who fought for the South fight FOR slavery, no. Jackson was a fascinating man and I’m glad I took the time to read this book and get this information. Do I stop here and set my opinions in stone? Nope. More books, more points of view, more knowledge.
emilybryk's review
4.0
Largely excellent, meticulously done.
My only issue is that, once the war begins, we occasionally (often?) fall into the Civil War Book trap of devoting more time to movements of troops and battle maps than to the actions of the person the book is actually about. I think that, for lots of big time Civil War buffs, this is really the core anyway, so maybe it's not even a flaw, but I'm here for the biographical, rather than the battle-analysis, aspect.
My only issue is that, once the war begins, we occasionally (often?) fall into the Civil War Book trap of devoting more time to movements of troops and battle maps than to the actions of the person the book is actually about. I think that, for lots of big time Civil War buffs, this is really the core anyway, so maybe it's not even a flaw, but I'm here for the biographical, rather than the battle-analysis, aspect.
lindasdarby's review
3.0
I have been reading this book for over 2 weeks and I am on page 60. It is really interesting and really well written but the truth is I am just not that interested in every single battle and strategic move made in the civil war. I am interested in the people and the stories but the strategies not so much. I would really like to finish the book but I think it might take me an entire year it is so dense. So I am giving up which pains me to be honest.