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Man of War: My Adventures in the World of Historical Reenactment
Confederates in the Attic meets The Year of Living Biblically in a funny and original memoir
In Arkansas, there is a full-scale Roman fort with catapults and ramparts. In Colorado, nearly a hundred men don Nazi uniforms to fight the battle of Stalingrad. On the St. Lawrence River, a group of dedicated history buffs row more slowly than they can walk—along with author Charlie Schroeder, who is sweating profusely and cursing the day he got a book deal.
Taking readers on a figurative trip through time and a literal journey across America, Man of War details an ordinary guy's attempt to relearn history by experiencing it. Embedding with his fellow countrymen, Charlie Schroeder jumps headlong into the idiosyncratic world of historical reenactment. From encounters with wildlife and frostbite to learning more than he ever expected about guns, ammo, and buttons, Schroeder takes readers to the front lines of bloodless battles in order to show exactly how much the past has to teach us all about our present (and explain why anyone would choose to wear wool in a heat wave).
In Arkansas, there is a full-scale Roman fort with catapults and ramparts. In Colorado, nearly a hundred men don Nazi uniforms to fight the battle of Stalingrad. On the St. Lawrence River, a group of dedicated history buffs row more slowly than they can walk—along with author Charlie Schroeder, who is sweating profusely and cursing the day he got a book deal.
Taking readers on a figurative trip through time and a literal journey across America, Man of War details an ordinary guy's attempt to relearn history by experiencing it. Embedding with his fellow countrymen, Charlie Schroeder jumps headlong into the idiosyncratic world of historical reenactment. From encounters with wildlife and frostbite to learning more than he ever expected about guns, ammo, and buttons, Schroeder takes readers to the front lines of bloodless battles in order to show exactly how much the past has to teach us all about our present (and explain why anyone would choose to wear wool in a heat wave).
288 pages, Hardcover
First published May 1, 2012
7 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Schroeder
1 book15 followersI share the same birthday as Harvey Korman, Matt Groening and the adult film star Arnold Schwartzenpecker. If that doesn't tell you all you need to know about me, well, then read on.
I've written for the NY Times, LA Times, New York Observer, Los Angeles Magazine and Readers Digest. A story I once wrote about people who fish golf course water hazards was selected for inclusion in the Best American Sports Writing. As an actor I've appeared in films, TV shows and on stage. As a public radio guy I've produced segments for shows including Marketplace, Only a Game, The Next Big Thing, Weekend America, Day 2 Day, Performance Today and On the Media. My wife Wendy and I make our home in Hong Kong, a city with many tall buildings.
I've written for the NY Times, LA Times, New York Observer, Los Angeles Magazine and Readers Digest. A story I once wrote about people who fish golf course water hazards was selected for inclusion in the Best American Sports Writing. As an actor I've appeared in films, TV shows and on stage. As a public radio guy I've produced segments for shows including Marketplace, Only a Game, The Next Big Thing, Weekend America, Day 2 Day, Performance Today and On the Media. My wife Wendy and I make our home in Hong Kong, a city with many tall buildings.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 19, 2013
A very enjoyable overview of reenactment in the US. As a former reenactor I particularly appreciated a passing reference to crawling out of a tent on a chilly morning after trying to sleep on the cold hard ground. Hot coffee is never so welcome!
I would say that the only thing Mr. Schroeder missed was how much time reenactors spend talking to the public, hoping to educate them on the time periods only to be asked The Three Questions over and over and how the Questions get turned into "Yes, but --" opportunities to teach:
1. Do you really sleep in those tents? (Mental answer: Yes or no, depending on how hard core they are.) Public answer: "Yes, but in the 18th century, a tent this size would sleep six men. The women would sleep under the baggage carts, not with their husbands. Etc."
2. Do you really eat that food? (Mental answer: I spent all day cooking it, so we better!) Public answer: "Yes, but in the medieval period they would have more X and less Y."
3. Aren't you hot in those clothes? (Mental answer: Good Lord, yes.) Public answer: "Aren't you hot with the sun beating down on all that exposed skin?"
Recommended for anyone who is interested in how we keep history alive or anyone who thought "The Tudors" depicts the 16th century.
I would say that the only thing Mr. Schroeder missed was how much time reenactors spend talking to the public, hoping to educate them on the time periods only to be asked The Three Questions over and over and how the Questions get turned into "Yes, but --" opportunities to teach:
1. Do you really sleep in those tents? (Mental answer: Yes or no, depending on how hard core they are.) Public answer: "Yes, but in the 18th century, a tent this size would sleep six men. The women would sleep under the baggage carts, not with their husbands. Etc."
2. Do you really eat that food? (Mental answer: I spent all day cooking it, so we better!) Public answer: "Yes, but in the medieval period they would have more X and less Y."
3. Aren't you hot in those clothes? (Mental answer: Good Lord, yes.) Public answer: "Aren't you hot with the sun beating down on all that exposed skin?"
Recommended for anyone who is interested in how we keep history alive or anyone who thought "The Tudors" depicts the 16th century.
July 7, 2012
This was a fun lighter read about a writer who decides to explore the world of historical reenactors, which leads to various strange adventures reenacting everything from Roman times to the Vietnam War. Schroeder is most likable when describing his journey from being someone who didn't care much about history to being a true history buff. One of my favorite passages:
"The more history I absorbed, the more I felt like a detective. Everywhere I looked, I examined things not for the way they are, but for the way they were, the way they came about...Becoming a history junkie, I discovered, is a lot like learning about that negative-space arrow thingy in the FedEx logo--between the "E" and the "X." Once you know it's there, that's all you can see."
He does try to get to some deeper points about the significance of studying history, but this mainly leads to strange tangents (most noticeably the one about the effect of the military-industrial complex on the economy). I would have liked the book more if he had been more successful in exploring the greater significance of his adventures...but it was a fun read nonetheless!
"The more history I absorbed, the more I felt like a detective. Everywhere I looked, I examined things not for the way they are, but for the way they were, the way they came about...Becoming a history junkie, I discovered, is a lot like learning about that negative-space arrow thingy in the FedEx logo--between the "E" and the "X." Once you know it's there, that's all you can see."
He does try to get to some deeper points about the significance of studying history, but this mainly leads to strange tangents (most noticeably the one about the effect of the military-industrial complex on the economy). I would have liked the book more if he had been more successful in exploring the greater significance of his adventures...but it was a fun read nonetheless!
November 30, 2017
absolutely phenomenal! schroeder combines fact, whit, and the 'realities of war' for a variety of periods. for example, i learned spainish pieces of eight were the first global currency. there were interesting tidbits mixed within his encounters with reenacters.
liberally sprinkled throughout were schroeder's witty observations. my favorite was 'flatulus' the farting roman. (i nearly died of laughter while reading the "I, carolus" chapter!)
also, liked the fact that he shared when he got hurt. he didn't gloss over the pain of his busted eardrum, his sore bum, or blistered feet. he 'told it like it was' pain and all.
just a few minor gripes about the book. i really would've LOVED to see pictures of his many costumes and places he visited. and finally, turkey LEG/LEGS not legge/legges (sorry charlie got to point out the typos).
overall, i greatly enjoyed the book. i learned, laughed, and groaned every step of his journey. he really made me want to get out and pick a period and get involved!
(Received free through Goodreads First Reads)
liberally sprinkled throughout were schroeder's witty observations. my favorite was 'flatulus' the farting roman. (i nearly died of laughter while reading the "I, carolus" chapter!)
also, liked the fact that he shared when he got hurt. he didn't gloss over the pain of his busted eardrum, his sore bum, or blistered feet. he 'told it like it was' pain and all.
just a few minor gripes about the book. i really would've LOVED to see pictures of his many costumes and places he visited. and finally, turkey LEG/LEGS not legge/legges (sorry charlie got to point out the typos).
overall, i greatly enjoyed the book. i learned, laughed, and groaned every step of his journey. he really made me want to get out and pick a period and get involved!
(Received free through Goodreads First Reads)
August 23, 2012
OK - this was a fun book! It became a bit disturbing in the Vietnam reenactment segment, but all in all just a lark. I love reading about sub-cultures and this certainly qualifies. People spend loads and lots of money being "authentic". Charles Schroeder is a great story teller and kept me amused and interested throughout.
March 22, 2013
A funny read for the reenactor or for one who wishes to get a glimpse in the world of historical reenactments. Would love a sequel, possibly some visits to europe? Many more groups and time periods to look into!
January 3, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Part of the reason is my involvement in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). While not a Reenactment group per se, we have many of the same motivations.
In recording his visits with the various groups Schroeder is insightful and respectful. Even when he disagreed with, and was even disturbed by what he saw, he tried to present the people portrayed in their own words rather than his.
If you have any interest in reenactment I heartily recommend this book. Or if you are just like insightful studies of people who are part of a unique sub-culture you'll enjoy this book.
In recording his visits with the various groups Schroeder is insightful and respectful. Even when he disagreed with, and was even disturbed by what he saw, he tried to present the people portrayed in their own words rather than his.
If you have any interest in reenactment I heartily recommend this book. Or if you are just like insightful studies of people who are part of a unique sub-culture you'll enjoy this book.
November 14, 2017
I loved this so much. As someone who worked both week work and as a pub wench in the NC Renn Faire, this was a very interesting topic. And Charlie is just so hilarious. Many laughs per page.
February 17, 2016
Subtitled “My Adventures in the World of Historical Reenactment,” this whimsically entertaining and informative book follows the author through what he recounts as the following: “I’d traveled close to forty thousand miles, reenacted ten different time periods, read upward of sixty books, dressed like a Roman, a Viking and a friggin’ Nazi, been attacked by the British, French and Russians, nearly froze to death, nearly capsized a bateau, got heckled by “Justin Bieber” and even made some new friends.” He finishes his adventures by discovering history in his own backyard of LA, walking most of the 26+ miles that Father Junipero Serra (who became known as Friale Andariego, or the Walking Friar) completed in the 1700’s. This is one time that Charlie’s research fell short, as what he attempted to complete (sans training) in a single day actually took the good Friar three. He had his wife Wendy pick him up about mile nineteen.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even though some raw language occurs in several venues (not that surprising, since it WAS war). Charlie’s writing is crisp, clever and replete with arcane references to popular culture. He found his reenactment of the Viet Nam area the most troubling, even appeared to witness a reenactment of a war crime during the event. Although he may never reenact again (he leaves that option open in the epilogue, as the bateaus of the Big Row are planning another jaunt), his interaction with history has clearly changed him.
I must also point out that I have met Charlie, have heard him on NPR’s “Only A Game,” and am a neighbor of his delightful (and equally whimsical mother, I could see the same glint in their eyes) in SE Pennsylvania, surrounded by our own history.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even though some raw language occurs in several venues (not that surprising, since it WAS war). Charlie’s writing is crisp, clever and replete with arcane references to popular culture. He found his reenactment of the Viet Nam area the most troubling, even appeared to witness a reenactment of a war crime during the event. Although he may never reenact again (he leaves that option open in the epilogue, as the bateaus of the Big Row are planning another jaunt), his interaction with history has clearly changed him.
I must also point out that I have met Charlie, have heard him on NPR’s “Only A Game,” and am a neighbor of his delightful (and equally whimsical mother, I could see the same glint in their eyes) in SE Pennsylvania, surrounded by our own history.
July 12, 2013
I received this book for free from goodreads giveaways.
This was an excellent book. It was funny, well written and informative. Charlie Schroeder took us on a journey into the life of the war reenactor. I have known some of these guys who reenact Civil War battles and I have always wondered what made them want to do that. Charlie answers that questions. He opens a whole new world to me. I am really impressed with how the book looked at this community of people who by their own admittance are sometimes a little crazy, gives us an entertaining and at times comical insight to their lives and yet does this professionally and informally. I never got the feeling that Schroeder was looking down on this group of people but trying was trying to figure out why they did what they did. Schroeder also strategically placed some history lessons in the book as well. This was a good book that kept me interested, especially the chapter on Vietnam. Check this book out and then check out some of the websites that Charlie leads you to...you will be fascinated to see a whole other world out there.
This was an excellent book. It was funny, well written and informative. Charlie Schroeder took us on a journey into the life of the war reenactor. I have known some of these guys who reenact Civil War battles and I have always wondered what made them want to do that. Charlie answers that questions. He opens a whole new world to me. I am really impressed with how the book looked at this community of people who by their own admittance are sometimes a little crazy, gives us an entertaining and at times comical insight to their lives and yet does this professionally and informally. I never got the feeling that Schroeder was looking down on this group of people but trying was trying to figure out why they did what they did. Schroeder also strategically placed some history lessons in the book as well. This was a good book that kept me interested, especially the chapter on Vietnam. Check this book out and then check out some of the websites that Charlie leads you to...you will be fascinated to see a whole other world out there.
May 24, 2012
http://charlotteswebofbooks.blogspot....
I was a bit concerned while reading about his first experience during the WWII reenactment that it was going to be one of those "these guys are a bunch of redneck freaks" types of books, but for a Liberal guy immersed in a mostly Conservative past time he did a good job of staying pretty objective. He recounts several conversations he had with several of the reenactors about the "whys and whats" of their involvement and it was really interesting. He even does a lot of name dropping of more recent history authors and their books, reading that he did to to prepare for events he participated in.
Bottom line is that Man of War is an interesting, fairly light-hearted look one of America's lesser known favorite pastimes. He keeps the book light and funny as he traipses through the countryside. Man of War is the perfect book for the History buff in your life. It is more than your typically dry History book, it actually puts you in the middle of the battle and that makes it worth the read.
I was a bit concerned while reading about his first experience during the WWII reenactment that it was going to be one of those "these guys are a bunch of redneck freaks" types of books, but for a Liberal guy immersed in a mostly Conservative past time he did a good job of staying pretty objective. He recounts several conversations he had with several of the reenactors about the "whys and whats" of their involvement and it was really interesting. He even does a lot of name dropping of more recent history authors and their books, reading that he did to to prepare for events he participated in.
Bottom line is that Man of War is an interesting, fairly light-hearted look one of America's lesser known favorite pastimes. He keeps the book light and funny as he traipses through the countryside. Man of War is the perfect book for the History buff in your life. It is more than your typically dry History book, it actually puts you in the middle of the battle and that makes it worth the read.
July 26, 2013
I truly love this story! I used to be part of a medieval recreation group since High school, so hearing of someone trying out a group and learning history this way is wonderful. There is something special about stepping into the lives of people who have past before us. I am one of those crazy people who go to restaurants dressed as Vikings with others, it is so much fun watching people's faces when they see us, and the off chance someone will let us teach them some history along the way.
This book explains how Charlie feels as he experiences different reenactments, and ends with him having a much greater respect for history and his modern life. The author's attempt at reenacting the walk between missions in California was interesting, not something I would probably attempt myself, but he learned a lot. I love this book, and I hope more people read it and decide to try reenactment themselves.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway. I was not paid for my review in any way, and the opinions are my own.
This book explains how Charlie feels as he experiences different reenactments, and ends with him having a much greater respect for history and his modern life. The author's attempt at reenacting the walk between missions in California was interesting, not something I would probably attempt myself, but he learned a lot. I love this book, and I hope more people read it and decide to try reenactment themselves.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway. I was not paid for my review in any way, and the opinions are my own.
June 16, 2014
Interesting account this author had with various reenactment groups. I found some experiences more fun and fascinating than others, but the dry wit came through with all the telling.
It seems that nowadays reenactors are few and far between so I'm hoping that this book may create more enthusiasm for this unique past time. It would be a shame for the public to miss out on a 'I was there' experience that these players put their hearts and souls into. And getting a history lesson is an added bonus.
The only problem I had with this book was that I'm not really sure the author 'got it' as to why people take up this hobby. He claims he did but it doesn't sound right to me. Also, his own hand at a small reenactment had disastrous results. I think if he was paying attention to all the groups he visited and paid attention to details, it would have fared better. As it was, it just seemed like a tacked-on humorous closing to the book.
But I'm glad I read it and I thank Cindy for making me aware of such a book!
It seems that nowadays reenactors are few and far between so I'm hoping that this book may create more enthusiasm for this unique past time. It would be a shame for the public to miss out on a 'I was there' experience that these players put their hearts and souls into. And getting a history lesson is an added bonus.
The only problem I had with this book was that I'm not really sure the author 'got it' as to why people take up this hobby. He claims he did but it doesn't sound right to me. Also, his own hand at a small reenactment had disastrous results. I think if he was paying attention to all the groups he visited and paid attention to details, it would have fared better. As it was, it just seemed like a tacked-on humorous closing to the book.
But I'm glad I read it and I thank Cindy for making me aware of such a book!
August 17, 2015
I finally got this title added to my reading schedule earlier this year and finished it. Once I got going, Man of War was an easy and entertaining read. Charlie Schroeder takes the reader on a series of adventures with reenactors doing WWII attacks on Stalingrad, Civil War clashes in Florida, Romans vs. Celts in Alabama, French and Indian War at Ft. Niagara, the Vietnam War in Virginia, and finishing with a Friar's walk in California. Along the way the reader learns as Charlie does that people can be kind or jerks, history is made up of moments that only make sense sometimes, and that life is rough without modern conveniences. An enjoyable trip into reenacting history.
September 26, 2012
Discovered this book by watching BookTV and seeing a segment with Charlie talking about this book and his experiences while writing this book. For a preview of the book you can watch the program via streaming video at:
http://booktv.org/Watch/13701/Man+of+...
I found this a very entertaining book that gave me an insight into those people who like to dress up like the people of old and spend their weekends trying to relive the past.
He takes us along as he experiences several different eras with those who seem to devote their lives to the reenactments of all types.
http://booktv.org/Watch/13701/Man+of+...
I found this a very entertaining book that gave me an insight into those people who like to dress up like the people of old and spend their weekends trying to relive the past.
He takes us along as he experiences several different eras with those who seem to devote their lives to the reenactments of all types.
May 30, 2013
This book was a pleasant surprise. From the summary I knew the author was going to take a humorous tone, but was concerned about whether it was going to focus on the oddballs of the reenacting world. I was happy to discover he was able to be respectful and tease a bit at the same time. Everyone knows about civil war reenacting which the author covers, but I really enjoyed the more tales of the more obscure reenacting groups like the vikings and scottish calvarymen. This is a great introduction for those who have had no interaction with reenactors and a great trip down memory lane for those that have.
August 26, 2024
An account of a year or so spent participating in a variety of historical re-enactments.
I didn’t dislike it, but I thought I’d like it more. I abandoned it for days - even weeks.
It was generally respectful of the re-enactors. Almost all of the snark was self-directed. He didn’t whitewash things, though, as he struggled with the idea of a pastime that includes dressing like a Nazi or pretending to execute a (fake) Vietnamese villager.
I guess maybe that was my problem. I expected something lighter and funnier, but there’s just not a way to make war funny.
I didn’t dislike it, but I thought I’d like it more. I abandoned it for days - even weeks.
It was generally respectful of the re-enactors. Almost all of the snark was self-directed. He didn’t whitewash things, though, as he struggled with the idea of a pastime that includes dressing like a Nazi or pretending to execute a (fake) Vietnamese villager.
I guess maybe that was my problem. I expected something lighter and funnier, but there’s just not a way to make war funny.
February 23, 2014
The story of one man's year long journey through a number of historical reenactments. It was an interesting read to see some of the reenactments in a close up view. The author was able to convey what ti is like to participate in some of these events. Some of them are a bit scary in regards to what they are portraying (German Army on the Eastern Front in WWII) or some of the things that the participants will do (Vietnam).
January 9, 2013
The author spent 15 months traveling to and participating in various reenactment groups through the US, partially inspired by "Confederates in the Attic."
I enjoyed the book, but started getting a little lost in the various narratives, as the scenes shifted from group to group. Worth reading, but I prefer "Confederates," maybe because it stuck to one time period.
I enjoyed the book, but started getting a little lost in the various narratives, as the scenes shifted from group to group. Worth reading, but I prefer "Confederates," maybe because it stuck to one time period.
June 9, 2013
Great insight into an interesting subculture (subcultures?) in America. Charlie is able to add humor as well as genuine respect for those of us in the historical reenactment community, and remind us that as much as we tend to "geek out" on our little hobby, in the end, you can't take it all too seriously.
June 10, 2012
A very detailed look at the world of reenactors. Charlie Schroeder didn't just interview the people who reenact part of history, he actually joins in, which gives the book an insider's look at what goes on when people get together and reenact history.
July 16, 2012
very entertaining; the subject was a fine approach to writing about a variety of topics; this book is good for reading aloud; got tired of seeing "stepped foot" and other expressions that should have been edited out; "fraile" was spelled "friale"
August 8, 2012
Pretty fun read. Not life-altering or particularly informative, but this man definitely suffered to create this, so kudos. (Much like The Lost City of Z, this mostly deterred me from pursuing the subject matter personally.)
September 28, 2012
Schroeder travels through history by becoming a reenactor. Easy read, some interesting points. Not as biting or profound as Tony Horowitz's Confederates in the Attic. Yet, if your thinking about reenacting history, a good place to find out what it's all about.
July 13, 2013
A lovely read, from the perspective of another (although temporary) re-enactor. It was enjoyable to hear about other impressions and time frames that I haven't had experience with--some of which I'd be interested in finding out more about (such as the Roman and Viking re-enacting)!
July 31, 2012
this book sounds like Fun! I do American Rev/Colonial reenacment. I am looking forward to reading the book
March 7, 2013
Not as good as Confederates in the Attic, but very entertaining! Made me laugh out loud at some points. He gets a little political, but nothing annoying.
November 14, 2012
I laughed out loud and made my husband listen to excerpts.
December 31, 2012
This book was so awesome that it gave me PTSD. Charlie Schroeder is on the shortlist of candidates for my new OIF/OEF re-enactment society!
May 1, 2013
I like this book very much, I read it in hard cover form. I not only learned about history
but a little about myself. I swear that I was a Roman soldier in a past life, with a few
problems.
but a little about myself. I swear that I was a Roman soldier in a past life, with a few
problems.
August 15, 2013
A gently amusing book. It's certainly a window into another world. Not as laugh out loud funny as I'd expected, more poignant.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews