The Unionist: A Novel of the Civil War Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am not usually interested much in historical fiction, but a friend recommended this book and it was excellent. Harrell's straightforward writing is a breath of fresh air that you don't get much these days. He is able to take complex items and explain them in terms that are relatively easy to understand. Subjects such as harvesting cotton and loading a musket don't seem enthralling, but I found myself feeling glad that someone took the time to tell me anyway. I also learned where the word "hooker" came from.
The author's battle depictions give you a real feeling for what it must have been like to partake in the brutal fighting that primitive weaponry and poor leadership usually lead to. His portrayal of the political turmoil that was brewing during the months preceding the war helped set the backdrop for the main character's tough decision to go fight for the Union, after being raised in the South.
The best thing about the book, though, is David Snelling, the main character. He is noble, honest, brave, and has one hell of a temper. It is amazing what damage one can do with an axe handle. It is also quite tragic to think that young men like Snelling, with bright futures and much to risk, offered their service and lives to keep this country together, only to be shunned by the very Union they fought to preserve. "The Unionist" shows how hard it was for people like Snelling to get a measley military pension.
Finally, this book is one that should be right next to "Red Badge of Courage" in required reading for high schoolers about the Civil War. Steven Harrell should be commended for introducing us to several "must see" characters and events in American history. Just as important is the that fact that Harrell is able to weave the story in a way that might actually entice students to keep reading.
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