NF Best Starting Books

[gary]

Bruce Catton's triology, The Army of the Potomac. This includes Mr. Lincoln's Army, The Glory Road, A Stillness at Appomattox.

 

[Richard Appledorf]

As far as historical fiction, you might check out Ralph Peters' novels of the eastern campaigns such as Cain at Gettysburg and Hell or Richmond. The books alternate between Federal and Confederate viewpoints with characters ranging from generals to privates. I also liked Douglas C. Jones' book The Barefoot Brigade about two brothers from Arkansas in the Army of Northern Virginia.

 

[FZ11]

As I've gotten more familiar with the Civil War, I've decided it's time to start reading some books. I've watched movies, and read articles online, but I haven't done any actual reading. What are some of the best books (NF and HF) to start out my ACW reading with? Any and all suggestions accepted.

Pick a major, well researched battle, I.E. Gettysburg. "Gettysburg" by Trudeau or Sears. "The Gettysburg Campaign" by Coddington. Buy the books used online or browse a bookstore to see what you like. 1st, 4th, and 5th Texas fought at Gettysburg. Enjoy.

 

[CWdiaryPA]

I don't believe that Battle Cry of Freedom is a good book to start with. It's initial chapters are a hard carve. Important stuff yes, but very heavy information.

I found Shelby Footes' Narrative series far better.... for me. The book breathes a lot better, the pacing isn't as frantic and it's far easier for mental imaging than BCoF.

Starter books don't have to be one volume. The other one which is utterly fantastic is the PDF book from Gary Gallaghers' lecture series. It's already been mentioned.

But my opinion is simply from my perspective.

I started with Battle Cry and was constantly confused about dates. WHERE in the war were we? WHAT day did such & such happen? Year, even. Very frustrating experience. Still salty about it 8 years later. Anyway, I'd go with Foote. Actually, it would have been more my speed to find the most basic overview, then tunnel down from there.