Ulysses S. Grant

School Library Journal

Gr 6-10-- While O'Brien covers all of Grant's life, the true focus here is his years as commander of the Union forces during the Civil War. The coverage of key campaigns (Vicksburg, Chattanooga, and the Wilderness) is excellent, conveying not only what occurred in each battle, but also the strategy behind the tactics. O'Brien imparts well the respect Grant garnered from Yankee and Rebel alike, and effectively draws out the striking contrast between him and Confederate General Lee. Readers learn not only of Grant's military brilliance, but also of his failures in civilian life and as president. Although many historians have dismissively attributed this commander's success to luck, this author has done a thorough and fair job at placing him among the best leaders in U. S. history. Lively, easily read and understood, with appropriate and well-captioned black-and-white illustrations, this is a worthy purchase for any library. --Elizabeth M. Reardon, McCallie School, Chattanooga, TN