The Boys' War : Confederate and Union Soldiers Talk About the Civil War
Author:
Genre: Children's Books
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genre: Children's Books
Book Type: Hardcover
R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed on + 1452 more book reviews
Some sources emphasize that those who fought in the Civil War were eighteen or older but that is not true. In the chaos that ensued when both sides realized that war was coming, many under age boys became part of their armies. Boys as young as twelve signed up. Often they were tall or big for their age but some were brought by their fathers who vouched for them. Yet neither side was prepared for the conflict and the first year was a learning experience. Boys who sought adventure found themselves facing death and dismemberment.
The author uses numerous quotes from many of the young soldiers to illustrate their experiences. Even the the dust cover features a photo of a young hero named Johnny Clem who became referred to as Johnny Shiloh. From battles to imprisonment to tramping through fields of dead comrades boys grew up quickly. Boys who joined the war effort had to prove their worth. Their youth and inexperience placed them at a disadvantage with their older more mature comrades. Indeed, one of the first deaths in one regiment was the death of a boy who stood up to an older soldier. Interesting and quick read that gives another insight into our past.
The author uses numerous quotes from many of the young soldiers to illustrate their experiences. Even the the dust cover features a photo of a young hero named Johnny Clem who became referred to as Johnny Shiloh. From battles to imprisonment to tramping through fields of dead comrades boys grew up quickly. Boys who joined the war effort had to prove their worth. Their youth and inexperience placed them at a disadvantage with their older more mature comrades. Indeed, one of the first deaths in one regiment was the death of a boy who stood up to an older soldier. Interesting and quick read that gives another insight into our past.
