Civil War forts

Children's Literature

"Sixty minutes later a shell arched slowly in the humid, predawn darkness and glowed a dull red as it descended over Fort Sumter." So begins Victor Brooks on the bloodiest war in American History. A part of the "Untold History of the Civil War" series, this book describes the various forts that were created and used during the Civil War. Not only does he write about the structures, he also includes the battles taking place on and around the forts. A marvelous book with colorful writing full of detail and action, Brooks is able to make the Civil War and the forts involved come alive. The use of illustration and photographs enhance the tremendous story telling and historical perspective provided by Brooks. By providing maps and a Civil War Chronology at the beginning of the book as well as a glossary, further reading, and websites sections, Mr. Brooks created a wonderful place to start studying and learning about the Civil War. 2000, Chelsea House Publishers, Ages 10 to 15, $17.95. Reviewer: John D. Orsborn

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-Each of these slim volumes begins with the same two maps: "Strategic Theater" in 1863 and "Civil War in the East: Virginia & Maryland." Forts introduces five key military sites, describing their histories and the key battles fought there. The maps are particularly useless in this book, as children will have to know where the forts are in order to locate them. Secret Weapons actually covers innovative warfare, such as the use of balloons and the Gatling gun. Although the weakest of the three volumes, it does gather this information together in one convenient package. In Spies, readers meet the "stars" (Allan Pinkerton, Belle Boyd, Elizabeth Van Lew), as well as some lesser-known operatives. Children will particularly enjoy the chapter on codes. On the whole, these three volumes will be popular with those who have a new interest in the Civil War, and will be stepping stones to more advanced research. Black-and-white photos and reproductions add interest.-Elizabeth M. Reardon, McCallie School, Chattanooga, TN Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|