Stonewall Jackson: Portrait of a Soldier

by John Hugh Bowers

Applying a novelist's shaping hand to history, Bowers gives a dramatic closeup of one of the most important generals of the South--his childhood as a poor orphan shuttled among strict relatives, his two marriages, and the driving ambition he fought to control throughout his life.

Genres: History, Biography, Civil War, American Civil War, Military Fiction

367 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Carolyn Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting "biography in the round"... it gives a much more complete picture of Jackson's character and surroundings than a lot of other biographies. The good, the bad, the indifferent, it's all here. The battles are described in enough detail to make one shudder, but the focus is on Jackson. Military movements and the politics of command are also described -- altogether a very interesting book. Not "juicy", but worth ingesting.

[Jeremiah Hopkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, several hundred pages in length, took considerable time to get through, especially during the holidays. Now that I have finished, however, I am astonished at the story of such a historical figure in the Civil War, one crucial to the Confederacy and a legendary general in his own right, arguably among those such as Ulysses S. Grant or even Napoleon. Of course, given that the Confederacy fought for slavery (which should not be supported or condoned whatsoever), I took on this biography in order to understand the war, and its key players, from both sides and not to support Confederate ideals (the same reason why I own books outlining both capitalism and Communism). However, as a stand-along character, Stonewall Jackson was a fascinating general and one that should tactically and personally be studied. A man of discipline, rigor, and sheer iron will, he was rightly feared and adored by those he led, and as a good leader should, he never felt above those beneath him, instead opting to be in the mud and more with his men.

"The time for war has not yet come, but it will come, and that soon, and when it does come, mu advice is to draw the sword and throw away the scabbard."

7.5/10

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite a remarkable story of Stonewall Jackson and the Civil War. Bowers has written a wonderful portrait of this historic figure and brought him to life for us.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fascinating read for anyone even remotely interested in history of any kind. It reads like a mixture of a novel and a biography-if that makes any sence at all.
One of the most enjoyable biographies I've read in a long time!
What a character Jackson was. The lemons, the odd health "remedies", the odd teaching method. My word, the man was a horrible teacher, but the minute there was a war, he became the best General Lee had.

A study in contradictions is the best way to sum up Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson.

[Tyler Lees · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stonewall Jackson was a fascinating man.

Also sheds some light on the culture & thinking of the times. Jackson didn't believe in slavery, and did not agree with secession, but when war came he became one of the South's most able generals.

For a very readable and enjoyable read about one of the Confederacy's most notable figures, read this book.

[Jerry Caldwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books about Stonewall Jackson. An entertaining read, especially for a historical account. Though what makes it better is the romantic view Civil War buffs have about Stonewall Jackson. When you read this book, however, you will discover why his men were willing to follow him to their deaths. Very entertaining book, from start to finish.

[Paul · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are much better Jackson biographies out there. Case in point, the portrait on the dust jacket isn't even Stonewall Jackson.

[Mark Levandoski · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting details of this legendary figure in history.Good mix of personal traits.