Book details
Behind the Blue and Gray: The Soldier's Life in the Civil War (Young Reader's Hist- Civil War)
Description
In this second of a three part series, this book traces the events of the Civil War from the first battle to the surrender with emphasis on the experiences of the individual soldiers.Whether they wore Union blue or Confederate gray, the untrained recruits of the Civil War quickly learned to endure the hardships of the army life. They experienced the horrors of battle, rampant disease, makeshift hospitals and prison camps, and even boredom. Drawing on letters, diaries, eyewitness accounts, and many vintage photographs, Behind the Blue and Gray explores the lives of soldiers from all walks of life, from all-black Northern regiments to young boys who lied about their age to enlist. Also in this series:A Nation Torn: The Story of How the Civil War BeganA Separate Battle: Women and the Civil War
Age
11-12
Text complexity
advanced
Length
112 pages
Why to read
- Educational Value: The book provides young readers with a detailed and accurate portrayal of the daily life of soldiers during the Civil War, offering insights into the historical period and helping them understand the complexities of the war beyond just battles and leaders.
- Engaging Storytelling: Delia Ray's narrative style is engaging and accessible, making history come alive for young readers. The book uses personal anecdotes and accounts from soldiers to create a vivid picture of the past.
- Perspective Building: 'Behind the Blue and Gray' gives readers a chance to learn about the diverse experiences of different soldiers, including their motivations, hardships, and the challenges they faced, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the human aspect of war.
- Supports Curriculum: This book is a valuable resource for students studying the Civil War as part of their history curriculum. It complements classroom learning by providing additional context and stories that textbooks may not cover.