The Battle of Gettysburg/American Heritage
The Battle of Gettysburg is one of many volumes from the American Heritage Junior Library. This series is an introduction to the major people and events of American history. This volume is a narrative of the battle of Gettysburg, its aftermath, and its significance. Fought on July 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, 1863, the battle can be considered the Confederate high tide of the Civil War. Author Bruce Catton uses an informal style in the narrative as he describes not only the battle of Gettysburg but the components of the armies and the personalities of the men who led them. Numerous photographs and paintings supplement the text. I did like this book but I was disappointed that Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain's bayonet charge at Little Round Top was not mentioned in the narrative. Also, I would have liked a map portraying the third day of the battle. Still, this is a concise overview of an important battle and is an ideal introduction for middle or high school students.