The American Civil War discussion

23 views
Battles, People & Key Events > Recommendations for book on Shenandoah Campaign of 1864

Comments Showing 1-5 of 5 (5 new)    post a comment »
dateUp arrow    newest »

message 1: by Greg (new)

Greg | 16 comments Looking for some recommendations on what is best book about the Shenandoah Campaign of 1864 (Sheridan vs. Early). Is Gallagher's or Wert's or other what you'd recommend? Thanks for all replies


message 2: by 'Aussie Rick' (last edited Apr 24, 2014 09:09PM) (new)

'Aussie Rick' (aussierick) | 1259 comments Hi Greg,

I've got this book sitting un-read in my library at the moment:

Shenandoah Summer The 1864 Valley Campaign by Scott C. Patchan by Scott C. Patchan
Reviews:
“The author’s descriptions of the battles are very detailed, full or regimental level actions, and individual incidents. He bases the accounts on commendable research in manuscript collections, newspapers, published memoirs and regimental histories, and secondary works. The words of the participants, quoted often by the author, give the narrative an immediacy. . . . A very creditable account of a neglected period.” — Jeffry D. Wert

“[Shenandoah Summer] contains excellent diagrams and maps of every battle and is recommended reading for those who have a passion for books on the Civil War.” — Waterline

“The narrative is interesting and readable, with chapters of a digestible length covering many of the battles of the campaign.” — Curled Up With a Good Book

"Shenandoah Summer provides readers with detailed combat action, colorful character portrayals, and sound strategic analysis. Patchan's book succeeds in reminding readers that there is still plenty to write about when it comes to the American Civil War. " —John Deppen, Blue & Grey Magazine

"The reality of the "neighbor versus neighbor" conflict explored in the pages of this monograph make it a worthwhile read for historians of the Shenandoah Valley, the battles of 1864, or the overarching military scope of the Civil War." — Gregory R. Jones, Northwest Ohio History

“Scott C. Patchan has solidified his position as the leading authority of the 1864 Shenandoah Valley Campaign with his outstanding campaign study, Shenandoah Summer. Mr. Patchan not only unearths this vital portion of the campaign, he has brought it back to life with a crisp and suspenseful narrative. His impeccable scholarship, confident analyses, spellbinding battle scenes, and wonderful character portraits will captivate even the most demanding readers. Shenandoah Summer is a must read for the Civil War aficionado as well as for students and scholars of American military history.” — Gary Ecelbarger, author of “We Are in for It!”: The First Battle of Kernstown, March 23, 1862

“Scott Patchan has given us a definitive account of the 1864 Valley Campaign. In clear prose and vivid detail, he weaves a spellbinding narrative that bristles with detail but never loses sight of the big picture. This is a campaign narrative of the first order.” — Gordon C. Rhea, author of The Battle of the Wilderness: May 5–6, 1864

“[Scott Patchan] is a ‘boots-on-the-ground’ historian, who works not just in archives but also in the sun and the rain and tall grass. Patchan’s mastery of the topography and the battlefields of the Valley is what sets him apart and, together with his deep research, gives his analysis of the campaign an unimpeachable authority.” — William J. Miller, author of Mapping for Stonewall and Great Maps of the Civil War


message 3: by Greg (new)

Greg | 16 comments 'Aussie Rick' wrote: "Hi Greg,

I've got this book sitting un-read in my library at the moment:

Shenandoah Summer The 1864 Valley Campaign by Scott C. Patchan by Scott C. Patchan
Reviews:
“The author’s ..."


Thanks Rick.... This one looks very good, and doesn't come up quite as much when searched. I've decided to read it and Gallagher's book as well. Thanks again, always appreciate and trust your guidance on this topic!


message 4: by 'Aussie Rick' (new)

'Aussie Rick' (aussierick) | 1259 comments I hope you like it Greg, let me know your thoughts on it when you finished it.


message 5: by Manray9 (new)

Manray9 | 509 comments Greg wrote: "Looking for some recommendations on what is best book about the Shenandoah Campaign of 1864 (Sheridan vs. Early). Is Gallagher's or Wert's or other what you'd recommend? Thanks for all replies"

I have had issues with Wert's books in the past due to errors of fact and sloppy editing. I endorse Gallagher.


back to top