The Battle of Bull Run

Children's Literature

In July, 1861, the Civil War appeared to be nearing its conclusion. For most Americans it seemed unthinkable that the divisive struggle between North and South could drag on for any length of time. Indeed, it was generally felt that one climactic battle would determine the victors in a war the general public felt was not destined to shed much blood at all. At Bull Run, the Union and Confederate armies clashed for what was anticipated to be that defining battle. Unfortunately, popular wisdom proved to be gravely wrong. The Civil War was to carry on for four bloody years and claim over 630,000 lives. Here, in Deborah Kops brief illustrated history of the first significant eastern battle of the war, readers will be given a concise recounting of that memorable engagement. Bull Run was a resounding Confederate victory but it was also a battle that could have ended with a drastically different result. Bull Run also was a fight that featured naive civilian spectators who toted picnic lunches to eat during a struggle they viewed as entertainment. Kops does a journeyman-like job of detailing this confusing battle and thereby creates a good introduction to a critical event in American history. The author might have produced a more stirring work by including more quotations from common soldiers and civilians. However, as written, this book is an acceptable retelling of the Bull Run battle. Part of the "Triangle Histories Civil War" series. 2001, Blackbirch Press, $17.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck

School Library Journal

Gr 6-8-In each book, the main focus is on the conflict, its geography and personalities, along with explanations of how each battle favored the North or the South. In September, 1862, Antietam pitted forces commanded by George McClellan against those of Robert E. Lee. In America's bloodiest day of war, the combined losses of both sides totaled 22,719 casualties. In July, 1863, Union and Confederate forces met at Gettysburg and engaged in the greatest battle of the war. Bull Run at Manassas in July, 1861, brought picnickers and sightseers from Washington, DC, many of whom believed this would be the one large battle of a short war. The recitation of casualty numbers and an explanation of how the Civil War was the first modern war with its weapons and use of technology, including the railroad, are significant features of these titles. Each volume includes a few quotes from primary sources and sidebars that highlight personalities and other topics. Full-color maps, black-and-white photos, reproductions, and illustrations accompany the texts. Additional choices for Civil War buffs.-Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.