Thomas Stonewall Jackson

Children's Literature

Thomas J. Jackson comes down to us as one of the legendary figures of the Civil War. An amazing combat commander, Jackson acquired the well-known nickname of "Stonewall" at First Bull Run. For the remainder of his career as a soldier Jackson was one of the most feared Confederate commanders of the Civil War. A man who drove both the Yankees and his own men to the limit, Jackson also had some personal peculiarities. Stonewall Jackson was a hypochondriac who followed a bizarre diet as well as exercising to avoid the host of illnesses he claimed as his own. Jackson was both loved and hated by his men; they took pride in their accomplishments but often shook their collective heads at the demands placed upon them by their commander. Jackson's life is well-handled in this concise illustrated biography. The author does a fine job of detailing the life and times of a man who combined brilliance with eccentricity. Eventually, Stonewall Jackson succumbed to painful wounds wrought by his own troops at the Battle of Chancellorsville. His death was a bitter blow to the Confederate cause. However, the demise of General Jackson set the stage for his legendary memory. This well developed book provides a helpful look back at the life and times of one of the most colorful and effective Civil War commanders. Part of "Triangle Histories the Civil War" series. 2001, Blackbirch Press, $19.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck