If one has to read about the most trying time, in our nations history; than let Mr. Foote's enthralling narrative, guide you. From every military clash to the stories that captivate the lore, his writing ensnares us into every bit of the struggle. Using words any common joe can understand, the war that made these colonies ever stronger is made uncomplicated and a joy to read. All three volumes are a must in any Civil War collection and in any personal library, as well.

While perhaps not as complete in its treatment of the political aspects of the conflict--though it doesn't ignore it in the least--this series leaves no military aspect of the Civil War out. Foote spent more than 20 years writing and researching his three volumes, and it shows. The result is far from a dry recounting of battlefield events, though. Weaving together the strategic and tactical elements of commanders on both sides and the line-of-battle concerns of the troops in their charge, there just isn't any book that gives a better illustration of the Civil War. A must for the library of any history buff.