Voices from the Civil War: A Documentary History of the Great American Conflict
Grade 6 Up-- Meltzer continues his series of documentary histories with this fine entry. Using primary and secondary source material, he highlights the Civil War years, from the time leading up to the bloody conflict to the assassination of Lincoln. He includes songs, poetry, the Gettysburg Address, and eyewitness recollections of battles, as well as descriptions of life on the home fronts. Two passages which stand out are the description of "Uncle Abe" Lincoln by Nathaniel Hawthorne and a graphic description of conditions for Yankee prisoners at the infamous Andersonville Prison. Meltzer has incorporated a good cross-section of material documenting both the Northern and Southern viewpoints, and his bibliography is excellent. His connecting narrative--which strings together the pieces of Civil War history--is clear, concise, and well written, putting these turbulent times into perspective. The open format, clean pages, and outstanding black-and-white photographs make this an attractive book that will be a fine resource for reports, as well as informative recreational reading for history buffs. --Elizabeth M. Reardon, McCallie School, Chattanooga, TNCopyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.