The Civil War Soldier: A Photographic Journey

Adult/High School-Mathew Brady's photographs have riveted history buffs for years and they remain a vital source of Civil War information. It can be difficult, however, for young adults to find a commonality with the soldiers portrayed in those photos. The limitations of 19th-century photography and the faces, even young ones, that look so old can make it challenging for students to relate to these warriors who were often little older than themselves. Carson has succeeded in his attempt to rectify this situation. A photojournalist and a Civil War reenactor, he carried his camera equipment in a haversack during various reenactments, enabling him to capture an insider's view of Civil War scenes. Taking the photos in black and white, he then hand colored a number of them using techniques similar to those of the 19th century. The reality of the scenes, especially those of death on the battlefield, is truly compelling. Quotes from the letters and journals of Civil War soldiers, along with their names and the armies to which they were attached, add to the veracity of the scenes portrayed. The book ends with the surrender of the Confederate army and the aftermath for the surviving soldiers. Hard to put down, this book offers a realistic peek into the life and times of the three million young men who, for a grueling five years, fought, marched, and died.-Carol DeAngelo, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA

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