It's quite odd, I'll admit, to write a pretty thick book of poetry and solely deal with one specific historical event. For the common man it sounds like it's easy for the poet to shoot himself in the foot many times if he is to make dry history into poetic language. This book shows that it is indeed possible to make great poetry of it after all.

Heyen has his own vocabulary throughout the book and manages to make historical figures all fit into his special universe, like everybody turned up on his writingdesk and got special instructions from Heyen on how they should react to special things. The remarkable is that Heyen stays very true and close to historical facts and is accurate, as far as I can trace him, throughout the book.

Of course Heyen, through the two protagonists Custer and Crazy Horse, makes it almost a fight between industrialization and nature, civilisation against free spirit. Heyen knows well that in todays society Custer is the winner, but still the other part of us still want to be free, perhaps only in different ways than C.H.

Mr. Heyen's perceptive piece of work is a joy to read. You can enjoy this book even if you have never read a poem, not even in high school. Pieces are very touching, other very funny. Heynen has a deep knowledge of the historical facts which contributes to his understanding and compassion. Most of the short poems resemble tiny stories, quick pictures of imaginary and true events, snapshots of Crazy Horse, his friends and enemies, all the Custers and those other folks from that time out there. These are uncomplicated and lovely prose poems. You don't need to know all about the Little Big Horn to enjoy Heyen's book, though it may help to know he has his facts right. His emotions are in the right place too.

Mr. Heyen's perceptive and beautiful piece of work is a joy to read. Pieces are very touching, and other pieces very funny. Heyen is a witty and intelligent writer. His deep knowledge of and empathy with the historical facts contribute to the understanding and compassion throughout his book. Most of the short poems resemble tiny stories, quick pictures of Crazy Horse, his friends and enemies, Custer, Mrs. Custer, all those folks from that time out there. Heyen writes uncomplicated and lovely prose poems. You don't need to know the facts of the Little Big Horn to enjoy Heyen's poetry, though it helps to know he has his facts right. His emotions are in the right place too. You can enjoy this book even if you have never read a poem since high school. It reads damn good.

Soldier boy was a book about a boy who enlisted himslef in the army to hide from the mob. After enlisted he started to dislike the Army, he was not being treated with respect. He then was moved to a fort in the Black Hills where he would fight the Indians under the great leader General Custer. The boy made many friends and became excited about the army but was not to sure about fighting against the Indians. This book was well written and I loved the book up till the ending! I would recommend this book to anyone who likes war stories.

Soldier boy is the story of a boy named Johnny "The Kid" who joins the cavalry to get away from his manager and some thugs who are trying to kill him because he wouldn't throw a game. Johnny finds himself as a private in Custer's cavalry getting ready for the spring when they will go after the Sioux Indians in the Black Hills. Soon he will be fighting again, this time for his life. I liked Soldier Boy because it gives a personal and realistic view of what being a soldier in Custer's cavalry was like. Also you normally hear that Custer's men loved him, but in this book you learn that his men didn't like him. Soldier Boy gives an inside view of what being in the cavalry was like. It shows that it wasn't all gallantry and riding but it also included things like doing the dishes and playing pranks. Soldier Boy was a exciting and wonderfully written book. From the saloons to Custer's last stand, Soldier Boy is a great book for all ages.

This book made me want to learn more about the old west and how we fought the Indain wars. It is a historicly acuret book with great details.

George Armstrong Custer is one of America's most famous soldiers, but his fame today is derived almost totally from the defeat that cost him his life. Today, Custer is the poster boy for hopeless causes- the perennial loser. However, one of the big reasons why the defeat at Little Big Horn was such a shock to Americans in 1876 was because before that battle Custer's name had been synonymous with victory. The thesis of Gregory Urwin's book, "Custer Victorious," is to illustrate by using Custer's Civil War career that he was far from the incompetent, glory hunter of current popular opinion. Instead Urwin sets out to show that GA Custer was one of the best brigade and division commanders in the Union Army.

Urwin's task is not too difficult. GA Custer's Civil War career was pretty spectacular. Promoted from a staff position to the command of a cavarly brigade on the eve of the battle of Gettysburg, Custer would prove to be an outstanding combat commander in virtually every engagement his unit fought in. Eventually, his profiency as a brigade commander would earn him the command of the 3rd Cavarly Division and a promotion to brevet major general at the age of 25.

Custer's critics like to point out that Custer's units suffered high casualties and that his successes were more a result of dumb luck than any tactical ability, Urwin ably destroys these misconceptions. It is true that Custer's men suffered heavy casualties, but that was unfortunately the cost of victory on Civil War battlefields. Also Custer never got the reputation for being careless with the lives of his men. His willingness to share in any danger that his men faced and the victories and prestige his units garnered under his command created admiration rather than resentment among his men. To prove this Urwin provides quotes from admiring subordinates and constantly refers to the 3rd Division as the "Red Tie boys" to remind the reader that many men in that unit wore red ties around their necks in tribute to the one worn by their long-haired commander. Urwin also utterly destroys the idea that Custer was a tactical buffoon who lucked into victories with flashy cavalry charges. Urwin shows that Custer used a mixture of dismounted and mounted tactics to overcome his opponents. He also shows that Custer had a good eye for terrain and keen sense when to launch a charge, which he used to great advantage during the later campaigns of the Civil War.

Urwin does make a very convincing case that GA Custer was an outstanding combat commander. His use of primary sources to build his case is very thorough. However, Urwin undoes alot of his work by constant cheerleading. Urwin's Custer is too perfect. Custer did make mistakes, but Urwin either dismisses them or just glances over them. The entire book is written in this annoying "rah-rah" cheerleader style. Urwin's adoration of Custer is just too much and brings down the entire academic tone of the book. In his forward, Urwin makes a statement about how as a liberal democrat he does not worship military types, but then the rest of the text makes that statement absurb because it borders on almost idol worship.

"Custer Victorious'" research is impressive and because of that it almost overcomes its almost hagiographic tone to build a pretty solid case that Custer was an exceptional combat leader. However, its constant cheerleading will make some very skeptical of its assertions.

A good read. We see a man who seized the moment and became one of the youngest most decorated and honored generals in our country's history. His critics called him "the boy general". Perhaps the most impressive attribute about him was "that when a hero was needed, he saddled up and charged" when no one else would. Like him or not, he liked a good fight and would race the devil himself to get to it first. He stood up and was counted. He pushed himself and the men who rode with him throughout the Virginia country side. In Urwin's accounting, you can almost all but hear the sabers rattle, the canons roar, and the clash of men desperately fighting as Custer led his Michigan Wolverines to glory within the most trying time in American history. For too long this part of the Custer past has been hidden to the casual reader of American history. He was then and is today a real American hero. Though often misunderstood. He lived, he breathed, he loved, and in the end he found that he bled real blood. There is much to know about this man and the foot print he and the 7th Cav left on the dusty pages of American history. Perhaps it is as Evan S. Connal, "Son of Morning Star"said, "If our heroes prove to be immortal then so, perhaps, are we. The man knew no fear, that is what made him so dangerous to his enemies, on both sides. He expected to win every time--he always had, and in his mind at least, he always would.

Popular opinion of George Armstrong Custer has changed dramatically through the years. During the Civil War and for decades afterword, he was regarded as a true American Hero. Then sentiment switched, based almost entirely on his death in what has become a politically incorrect battle.

Custer's value in preserving the Union during the Civil War was so profound, General Phil Sheridan presented the table upon which the surrender was signed to Custer's wife and said "...there is scarcely an individual in our service who has contributed more to bring about this desirable result than your gallant husband."

This book relates many accounts of how Custer, arriving upon a battle, could instantly size up the situation and seize the initiative. He inspired his men in battle and when he ordered them to charge he would lead them personally, miraculously escaping the hundreds of bullets fired at him by an enemy who could easily recognize him by his long blonde hair and flamboyant dress. One of his cavalry troopers said, "Under him a man is ashamed to be cowardly. Under HIM our men can achieve wonders."

Following is a quote from the book, about Custer in the battle of Five Forks: " 'We are going to take those works and we are not coming back until we get them!' The Red Ties lunged ahead...Old Curly and his staff in front as always...General Custer's Bugler, Color Bearer, and Orderly...All went down...Miraculously, Custer was untouched by that scything fusillade. Swinging down from his saddle like a stunt rider, he grabbed his fallen guidon without dismounting, swirled it over his head, jammed his spurs into his horse, streaked right up to the enemy, and leaped his charger over the earthworks."

Custer's actions in the Civil War are now allowed to speak for themselves in Urwin's outstanding book. If you are interested in the Civil War and admire personal courage, you will enjoy "Custer Victorious."

Maybe, as a history buff, I'm getting used to more interesting presentational formats of history. Perhaps that's why I found this book, generally, to be a very boring exercise in reading something. I was disappointed.

The battles, leaders and controversies of the war are seen through the eyes of the young officers from the US military academy. From the earliest battles through the end -- insights on the military strategy and political issues of the war are illuminated. The post war careers of the officers bring to light still relevant controversies concerning the reconstruction period. Well documented and well selected this is a gold mine of insights for those interested in the Civil War period.

The Class of 1861 is an immensely readable account of the group. Kirshner has provided a chronological account of the famous class that focuses primarily on various Civil War battles, but also the post war period. This collection of stories and short biographies taken from a prodigious amount of primary sources provides many interesting insights into the military experience and mindset of the professionally trained soldier. All in all, this book gives an interesting account of a group of young individuals from our Service Academy trained in the art of war that, perhaps fortunately or perhaps not, gets the opportunity to use their skill and knowledge right after, and in some cases, before graduation.

Incidentally, the picture of the front cover is believed to be the earliest photograph of the US Corps of Cadets at West Point. Although undated, it was probably taken sometime between 1860 and 1862.

Pat Kines' portrayal of Elizabeth Custer in "A Life Within a Life" is to Libbie Custer biographies what Cliff's Notes are to literature. Kines does an admirable job of summing up the high points in Libbie's life, and of laboriously summarizing the memoirs Custer left behind. Unfortunately, she doesn't do much else in terms of making original observations or assertions about this very fascinating person.

For somebody who is completely unfamiliar with Elizabeth Custer and doesn't want to take the time to read Boots and Saddles or any of her other writings, A Life Within A Life is a fine place to start. For others, Leckie's 1993 biography (which Kines actually points to as the impetus for her book) will be a far more interesting read.

I loved reading about Libbie Custer! She was a strong and intelligent woman with a fascinating life. In this book I learned so many things. Among them I learned that George Armstrong Custer had a more human side to him than what history books portrayed. It really opened my eyes!

"A life within a life" is a book about the wife of General George Armstrong Custer. But the book is about much more than the life of Elizabeth (Libbie) Bacon Custer. The book is also about her adventures with her husband and with the U.S. Army.

The author (Pat Kines) brings personal family experience of the old West to enhance her book. Her Grandmother had direct encounters with hostile natives, and Pat and her family have always lived in the West.

Libbie was born in Monroe, Michigan. She kept a diary from which we learn a great deal about her and the life she lived. Libbie was from a wealthy family, was well educated, and had an intellectual sense of humor.

The book brings Libbie to life with a variety of anecdotes, words from Libbie's own hand, and relevant (and interesting) historical facts of the period. Of particular historical interest is the chapter titled, "After the Civil War". That chapter shows how Libbie, from the North, viewed the people from the South as they tried to regain some normalcy after losing the war.

The book describes Libbie's down-to-earth, every-day living conditions. The descriptions are excellent and include her life in Army tents, how she traveled with her personal and military entourage, what it was like for her to stay at various forts, and how she and the other occupants of the forts (men and women) entertained themselves. Life was very hard at times, but Libbie was determined to remain a lady no matter how difficult the living conditions became.

Entertainment at the forts was very important and included dancing, singing, riding outside of the fort (even in inclement weather), and picnics. Sometimes the military band from the fort played at the picnics!

Libbie outlived her husband by fifty years, during which time she made a successful life by herself. She was able to travel a great deal and had many friends around the world.

I think that "A life within a life" is an important as well as interesting book. It shows Libbie to be a resourceful woman dedicated to her husband and at the same time she was independent and caring of those less fortunate. The book is a perfect candidate for Oprah's Book Club.

Based upon the editors description I thought I was getting a detailed field book describing specific parts that make up as-designed M1's. Not so. The specific information is sketchy, it includes almost no parts photos, only low quality line drawings. Much detail is left out and few exceptions to the general rules are mentioned. Some of the factual information is suspect ("The round operating rod spring was the same for all manufacturers and did not change during its production life"). Personal experience with CMP issued rifles suggests this is not true. An "OK" book for beginners, serious collecters should search out a copy of the Duff manual.

Es un excelente libro para personas que estan interesadas en historia de armas, asi como para coleccionistas.

Beginning as a rank armature interested in collecting a WWII era M1 Garand, I purchased this book to assist me in my quest. With the help of this book, I was able to not only pick out a quality Garand from among the hundreds of pieces of junk out there, but I was able to restore it to "as issued" condition. This is quite simply the premiere resource book on the Garand for anyone looking to collect true collectable military Garands! From the correct rear sight, to the markings on the stock, right on down to which cleaning kit or bayonet was issued with a rifle of a certain series of receiver serial numbers, this book will make you a more savvy investor of the M1 Garand. I've referenced this book so many times that the binding is falling apart! There is even an inventory check-list which allows you to see at a glance, which parts on your rifle are historically "correct", and which needs replacing. Simply put, if you have a Grand and want to restore it to it's original "as issued" condition, or want to educate yourself before heading to the gun show, you could spend months in the library, or just buy this book!

Thomas B. MARQUIS had given Us a Biography of "Wooden Legs: A Warrior Who Fought Custer". This time, he presents Us a deep analysis of CUSTER's & RENO's mistakes on the Little Big Horn Battlefield... to throw it. But, he goes further and tries to explain the defeat... And so, we learn that the 7th Cavalry Troops were (very) Young (also see Douglas D. SCOTT, P. WILLEY and Melissa A. CONNOR's "They Died with Custer: Soldiers'Bones from the Battle of the Little Bighorn"), inexperienced and were soo influenced by the fear to be tortured by Indians warriors when captured, they prefered kill themself. MARQUIS' thesis sets on a serious investigation and, its demonstration is soo that if we are troubled, we may not reject it without carefullness. This book is a document very usefull to everybody tries to understand the defeat. To read... with the usual openmind, but to read urgently.

Good insight into the historical and strategic problems facing the American Indians regarding their weapons as well as problems the army faced. Mr. Marquis' conclusion that Custer's enemy was his own men's lack of experience and training, thus leading to the only way out for them is insightful and interesting.

Adam Dawson saw more than his share of action riding with Custer's unit in the Civil War. Now that the fighting and killing are over, he wants nothing more than to drift peacefully toward the West. His journey through Texas lands him in the path of Chad Walker, a man who lost his ability to care about anything as a result of the same war. Chad takes Adam under his wing, giving him a job at the ranch. Unfortunately, trouble follows the man who still wears the red neckerchief of Custer's soldiers. There Came a Stranger is an interesting read for the history buff and the non-history buff alike. His straightforward, unembellished writing style starkly portrays a fictional account of life in post war America. His characters' actions are well defined even through the difficult challenges they face. Their angst is palpable; the bleakness of the landscape and of life comes alive. Elsie Moyer

just a great book from fenady again. i've been a fan for years and stranger really hits the mark. if you haven't read his other books you should. nice, quick, fun, easy reading. something light and entertaining for a sunday afternoon. highly recommended.

You must understand I'd just finished a book on the Sicillian Mafia and thinking this was a strait bio on Libby Custer I didnt get it at frist. But moving thru it, its more then a biagraphy. Its about the whys and hows of keeping lost love alive and of moving on. touching and funny. An entertaining read.

Poor Libbie Custer (born Elizabeth Bacon). Had to polish her husband's reputation over and over again. Poolman, who had recently dealt with the death of his wife, makes interesting work of his study of the most famous cavalry widow of all--in an attempt to understand the frailties of life. The book is wrapped around Poolman's journey to sanity, and quietly deals with the Custers' relationship and Libbie's long life after the Battle of the Little Big Horn in 1876. You get to actually know a sensitive G.A. Custer, and a fiercely devoted Libbie, who harboured his legend during her journeys around the world.

Also fiercely devoted are all those people who have been hopelessly entraced by the Custer myth, who are just short of, well, nuts. While in Monroe, MI, you can actually go on a tour of the Custer's honeymoon (there wasn't one, so you get to walk on the same sidewalk), and recreate their wedding ceremony. On the anniversary of Custer's death on June 25, you can go to the barber and get a "Custer Cut"--"Custer Cut, Custer Prices". All of this craziness is treated with great humour by Poolman and is almost more interesting than the story of Libbie and her long widowhood.

Sometimes Poolman's modern dialogue is hard to follow, and some parts were a little gratuitous, but all in all, you cannot read this book and not smile, even just a little.

This is a great book to start a study of Custers Last Stand. However the author jumbles a few key references together and then makes an enormous miscalculation that ignores all the indian accounts as to the fate of the 28 men in DEEP RAVINE. It still is a good starting point and contains a wealth of good information

It seems the real mystery is where are the other missing bodies? Maybe lost in the river, or did any of Custer's party reach the river? If the Cemetery Ridge theory is unsupported, clearly, by eye-witness testimony how does one rectify the lack of archeological evidence to support the Deep Ravine Theory. It seems there may never be definitive agreement as to what happened to E Troop. However I think Michno's overview of the battle has credibility and should not be overlooked, or dismissed.

This book is well researched and well written. However, if you have just a passing interest in the Battle of the Little Bighorn, or have just begun your reading on the subject, this is not for you. In an effort to solve the mystery of 28 troopers who apparently died in Deep Ravine, but whose bodies are said to have never been found, Michno provides innumerable eye-witness accounts both white and Indian. In the beginning I tried to follow all of them, especially since I had just been to the battlefield, but I soon found it far too cumbersome. Mr. Michno has put alot of work into this, and he deserves recognition for it, however I would recommend this book only for people who already have a very detailed knowlege of the subject. END