I highly recommend this book as part of any study of the Civil War.  Janis Herbert does an excellent job of providing a variety of views of the conflict. It's not simply a litany of battles and dates.  Herbert creates a compelling story that keeps the reader's interest. She also includes various activities with each chapter such as creating berry ink, drill exercises, and homemade hardtack.  The book contains numerous pictures and sidebars of some of the participants ranging from Ulysses S. Grant to the drummer boy Johnny Clem. Also very useful is a glossary, a guide to officers, a time line, and a list of Civil War resources.

Part of the appeal of this book for me is it's appearance.  You know how certain books just seem to grab your eye no matter what the subject just because of the layout?  This book definitely has that quality.  It's easy to read straight through but after you're done, you'll still find yourself flipping through the pages, reading the sidebars and enjoying the pictures.

Chapter One: To War!
Chapter Two: Drill, Drill, Drill
Chapter Three: Battle West and East
Chapter Four: Camp Life
Chapter Five: Fighting for Freedom
Chapter Six: Behind the Battle Lines
Chapter Seven: The Union Struggles
Chapter Eight: On the March
Chapter Nine: The Confederacy Falters
Chapter Ten: Hardships of War
Chapter Eleven: A River of Blood and a Battle About the Clouds