Hennessy does the best job to date in detailing the 2nd Manassas or otherwise known Bull Run campaign then any writer to date. As a National Parks historian who served on these fields combined with guidance by the renowned Robert Krick, Hennessy provides a well-written, well-researched and organized detail of the entire campaign. From Pope's arrival with his "take the war to the civilian's" proclamations and his coming to grips with a dysfunctional army made of McClellanites, Hennessy gives a great description of this Union Army of Virginia. In contrast, Lee has organized his army into two wings, Jackson the maneuvering striking force and Longstreet the reliable front man and heavy counter puncher. Great description of Jackson's great flanking march behind Pope to Manassas and his attack at Groveton that started the battle and sets the stage for Pope's obsession to crush Jackson. Hennessy notes the frustrations that accompanied Pope in shuffling McClellan's former divisions forward after they just recently left the Peninsula. One of the most interesting segment deals with Pope focusing so much on Jackson that he leaves Thoroughfare Gap lightly defended allowing Longstreet to arrive on the scene in time to strike during Jackson's critical need for relief. The other part of this drama is the mistrust that Pope has for Union General Porter who is posted on Pope's far left. Porter reports Longstreet's arrival and implores Pope that he cannot attack Jackson as ordered. Pope's failure to believe that Longstreet is on the scene leads to Longstreet's famous mass attack that collapsed the Union army into another rout except for rear guard stands along Henry Hill. Pope later charges Porter, who was not completely innocent in attitude, of insubordination resulting in one of the most famous Conduct of the War trials, Porter is court-martialed and the ruling sends a chilling message to the military supporters of McClellan. Great detail on movements with very much appreciated maps and excellent descriptions of the commanders and their decisions. A facinating chapter deals with Union General Sigel's attempts to attack Jackson that are hampered by Kearney's reluctance to support him in battle based purely on personal reasons. As a great plus, Hennessy is a gifted writer making this book a joy to read.

John Hennessy has written the definitive account of the Campaign and Battle of Second Manassas. Regarding the Union commander, the text states "John Pope has come to us as a bumbling fool....But in the summer of 1862 he possessed many of the qualities the administration felt it needed in Virginia. His record was not so much impressive as solid." Chapter 1 notes that the government was partly responsible for the Second Manassas defeat writing "...the real problem lay not just with Lincoln's military inability's, but with the government's insistence on using the military as a refuge for political patrons." The book recalls an interesting fact noting that Pope's infamous orders No. 5, subsisting off the land; No. 7, guerrillas; and No. 11, disloyal citizens were approved in advance by Lincoln. Order No. 5, directing subsistence off the land, was especially onerous as the it was used as a license to loot.

This was Robert E. Lee's first full campaign as commander of the Army of Northern Virginia and the Federals gave Lee the strategic initiative in Virginia by abandoning the Peninsula. The book details Lee's campaign from the Rapidan to the battle at Manassas. Many interesting and critical events prior to the Manassas are described. While the two armies were stalemated on the Rappahannock, Stuart's raid striking Pope's rear is narrated followed by an account of Stonewall Jackson's August 25 flanking movement which resulted in the burning of Bristoe Station and the capture of Manassas Junction August 27th. The author notes that throughout these actions Pope's cavalry failed to produce intelligence about Lee's movements and intentions but rather "stood ragged and impotent"

John Hennessy details the bloody battles on August 28, 29 and 30. The author writes "Pope's decision to attack Jackson near Groveton was both momentous and fateful, for Pope was committing to fight a battle on Jackson's front and Jackson's terms. It was a battle that need not have been." The book describes how the Union commanders under Pope launched attacks against Jackson which often breached his lines but lacking coordination and support from other units, after much gallantry failed with heavy losses. For example, the text states "Grover's regiments had indeed performed admirably, but the more important point was that they fought alone, and were doomed to ultimate failure." The author provides an excellent analysis of each engagement plus

gives both the background and an evaluation of the commanders involved stating that Pope never provided the leadership for the required coordinated action and support for these attacks to succeed.

The arrival on August 29 of Longstreet's Corps in support of Jackson and the failure of McClellan to support John Pope dramatically changed the tactical and strategic situation. The author notes that by 5 PM on the 29th "Longstreet suggested that the major effort be postponed until morning" and Lee laid the groundwork for "what he hoped would be a decisive attack the next morning...." Most interestingly, Pope concluded "the enemy was retreating; indeed the battle might be won!. ... quickly decided to mount a pursuit." The text continues "History could hardly have conjured more disparate--and ironic--reasoning ....Pope thought the Confederates in wild retreat; Lee sought to lay the groundwork for the battle's climatic attack. No other incident of the campaign more succinctly demonstrates the diverging quality of command each side enjoyed, or, in the case of the Federals, suffered." Hennessy writes that after waffling all morning on the 30th and rejecting what information he received, Pope ordered General Porter to attack what Pope believed to be retreating Confederates. After a gallant and tenacious effort, Porter's troops had to retreat. An interesting story from this fight was the stone-throwing by some Confederates after their ammunition was gone. The text notes, amazingly Pope failed to recognize the danger to his left and continues "With Porter long since gone from his threatening position ....Longstreet recognized his opportunity to completely envelop the Union left.To accomplish this, Longstreet selected as the objective of his attack the old battleground of Henry Hill."

At 4 P.M. on the 30th, Longstreet attacked the Union left. The author notes that "Union defeat seemed a certainty. Only the magnitude of the defeat remained in doubt." and he continues "The position most important to the safety of the Union army was Henry Hill" The author provides an excellent account of the fighting for Chinn Ridge and Henry Hill; and states that the Confederates captured Chinn Ridge but due to Union General McLean's fierce defense, precious minutes were gained allowing the Federals time to organize the defense of Henry Hill. With only an hour of daylight remaining, the battle for Henry Hill ceased. The Confederates had not captured Henry Hill thereby allowing the Federals to retreat, but the Union left was turned and crushed; Pope had been outmaneuvered and out fought.

The book describes the Union retreat, the subsequent fighting with a final battle at Chintilly, and Pope's withdrew to Washington DC. The Epilogue gives an analysis of the campaign stating "The well-oiled performance of the Confederate army contrasted sharply with the disorganized toil of Pope's Army of Virginia. Few Yankee soldiers of any rank emerged from the disaster at Second Manassas with enhanced reputations...." except for General McLean on Chinn Ridge.

For the Confederates the text notes "Second Manassas represented James Longstreet's most important contribution to any of Lee's victories." Hennessy notes "The Second Manassas Campaign also marked the emergence of Robert E. Lee. it represented the happiest marriage of strategy and tactics he would ever attain...." In summary he states "The Confederate victory at Second Manassas was primarily a triumph of maneuver and timing abetted greatly by Yankee mismanagement."

The author concludes "That John Pope lost this campaign to R.E. Lee was the fault, primarily, of John Pope....He utterly failed in the basic responsibilities of commanding an army on the battlefield."

In the same league as Shelby Foote, Mr. Hennessy brings the battle of Second Manassas to the reader in a most entertaining and informative way. Unlike many millitary books which are dry and hard to follow, this book reads like a novel keeping the reader's interest from beginning to end. I am not a serious Civil War or millitary historian like many of the other reviewers, but I enjoy good, historically accurate books. This is one of the best books I have ever read either fiction or not. After receiving this book as a gift I consumed it in every spare minute finishing it within three days. Do yourself a favor and read this book!!!!!

LOOKING FOR PA is a wonderful story that will capture the attention of young readers from the opening pages. A brother and sister, Jacob, 11 and Jessie, 8, are distraught, as they watch their father depart to fight with the Confederate forces. The unexpected death of their mother becomes a compelling reason for the two children to set off to locate their father. As the two travel by foot, accompanied by their pet goat, pig, and cat, they encounter some frightening obstacles, several fascinating people, and many disappointments. The satisfying conclusion will make all young readers feel proud, as they witness Jacob's and Jessie's tenacity, as they adapt and solve problems through the worst of times. The author, Geraldine Lee Susi, successfully combines the story of a desperate search with historical information and interesting details about the Civil War. The book provides many opportunities for children to gain insight into the issues and emotional turmoil surrounding this very difficult period in our history.

I am a Loudoun County 4th grade teacher. Three years ago I was looking for a novel to read to my class that would characterize the Piedmont Region of Virginia! I was fortunate to find the charming, historical fiction book, "Looking for Pa" by Geraldine Susi. Mrs.Susi's writing is vivid, descriptive, and a wonderful example of great writing for her young readers. Reading this novel is always a highlight in my school year. My students beg me to read this book each day! In 4th grade we have a great deal of Social Studies material to teach in a school year (Jamestown-present day). Unfortunately, I don't have the luxury of spending a great deal of time teaching the Civil War. By reading this novel during my Language Arts time, I can spend a more in depth time on this period of history. Through this story she is able to present a vast knowlege of the Civil War Battle at Bull Run and the Piedmont region of Virginia. You feel like you are traveling along with this brother and sister caravan on their journey to find their Pa who is fighting for the Confederate Army. This novel gives my students an opportunity to internalize this period in history. I am so happy that my school ordered this novel as one of our 4th grade novel sets. I also highly recommend the teacher's guide that accompanies this book. Mrs. Susi, who is a retired reading teacher from Fairfax County, Virginia, has done a marvelous job suggesting various activities which stress vocabulary and reading comprehension. I can't wait to read Mrs.Susi's upcoming book. I am sure the sequal will be equally as exciting and educating as the first novel. Susie Geurin, Sterling Elementary School.

"Looking for Pa" is a wonderful historical fiction book that brings the Civil War to life for readers young and old. As a Language Arts and Social Studies teacher candidate, I have found multiple uses for Jeri Susi's book. She raises issues of the early Civil War in Virginia in a subtle way that allows excellent thinking and discussion opportunities for 4th grade through high school students. Well worth the price and highly recommended for pure entertainment. Superior maps and illustrations greatly enhance the dialogue rich text.

The Virginia Hostess is a fabulous guide for anyone! Whether you are an experienced chef or a novice, this cookbook is more than the average collection of recipes. It features themed chapters with beautiful historic sketches from Virginia. Each chapter has complete menus for different occasions, including showers, children's parties, formal dinners, picnics, holiday occasions and more! An educational and comprehensive wine selection section is included. I highly recommend this beautiful and resourceful cookbook and entertaining guide!

The menus ideas are terrific! I enjoyed all the recipes and was glad to have a cookbook that covers most any occasion. The layout is superb and makes a great bridal or hostess gift. This book has really made my life a lot simpler when I am called to entertain. I own a lot of cookbooks but this one is well worn and used often.

I've owned this book for a couple of years now, and have reallyused it alot! It has great recipes in it, but in addition, it hasmenu and entertaining suggestions, a list of Virginia wineries, and even ideas for kids' parties. (Who knew how to make face paint?) I also like the fact that it comes from a community service organization, so I know part of my purchase price went to a good cause.

I own two of these maps so far. I can honestly say that I want all of them. I love maps but not just any will do. These are not only beautiful but as near as I can tell, accurate. These are great to use with civil war books short on good detailed maps or just to keep your bearing while you read. There are no military markings on these but if one were to laminate and use map markers, voila. Gotta have these.

It doesn't matter if this book is out of print. If you have gotten to this point in your search and are reading this review then you should buy this book if the cost is not prohibitive for you. Whether you just want an enjoyable book to read about this subject or are doing serious research then you will find this book invaluable. The book covers the battle in detail but more importantly it extensively describes the entire campaign centered around the battle.

I thoroughly enjoyed M@M. It's a quick read, which is a good thing because it's hard to put down once you start reading. It's a great combination of history, current events, ghost story and love story. I'd love to see more in a similar series.

Reading this series of books is like watching Ken Burns' "The Civil War", I never cease to marvel at the eloquence of the writers and the resolutness of their beliefs. These books capture the spirit and purpose of the men and women who were willing to sacrifice their lives for their convictions, and one can not help but admire their character and courage. The Civil War introduced Napoleonic tactics to the industrial revolution and its ability to cause casualties in huge numbers, the results are set forth in detail in these books. Obviously, we couldn't be there, but the way these books are composed, we are taken as close as we will ever hope to get.

The seventh installment of the Scholarly Resource "American Crisis Series" on the Civil War era, A Single Grand Victory: The First Campaign And Battle Of Manassas by Civil War scholar and historian Ethan S. Rafuse is a meticulous, exhaustively researched, well written examination of every phase of the first major clash of the Civil War which came to be known as the Battle of Manassas. From the march on Centreville to the savage slaughter on Henry Hill, A Single Grand Victory is painstakingly researched, and presented with exquisite detail. A Single Grand Victory is a strongly recommended addition to Civil War Studies supplemental reading lists and academic reference collections.

The scope of this book becomes apparent when you realize that all of its 636 pages (in the hardcover edition) concern one battle, Second Manassas. Wicker exhaustively portrays the battle from many different viewpoints -- generals and footsoldiers on both sides, local people, photographers, telegraph operators, etc. The plethora of characters sometimes gets exhausting. On the other hand, if you find a specific plot thread boring, you know something better will be coming up in a page or two! Wicker has done an interesting reconstruction job in that he has changed and renamed historical people and events: substituting his own characters for real people, taking anecdotes from original sources (for example, the scene at Manassas Junction where they can't decide what to cook first) and making them his own. He does well with battle and hospital scenes and with the dialogue and experiences of common soldiers. I like his ability to incorporate sex into the story without losing the "period" feel or becoming silly. Particularly good scenes include Hart's duel and the death of Cady. As for why this doesn't get five stars: There are one or two scenes where the rawness, the cynicism, just gets a little too over the top. Wash is not believable, and one of the hospital scenes was just too cruel even for me. The writing is fluent and enjoyable but it neither is nor tries to be "literary". Overall, I highly recommend this book.

There are probably two big groups of readers : Those who will reread "Gone with the Wind" ad infinitum, and the rest.
I must confess I belong to the rest, such thing gives you the opportunity to discover such gems as this one.
I agree with another reviewer GIVE US A NEW HARDBACK EDITION for keeps.
What more can I say?.

I own many non fiction publications on this war, from the full 4 volume set of Battles and Leaders of the Civil War, written in 1880 by the Generals and leaders who participated in the War of Northern Agression, to the fictional Shaara novel The Killer Angels.

None of my other publications literally made me feel as though I not only was an eagle watching over the battle;but also, in the trenches behind the un finished railroad atop Sudley Mountian.

Selfishly, I would like to see a new printing of this novel.

Having read the unabridged version I approached this abridgement. My experience can be described as comparing the painting of the Mona Lisa with a pencil rendition. The absence of the appendices and the explanatory footnotes together with the gouged text made less traumatic with artificial bridging (abridgement) results in nothing more than a mere pencil sketch of a true masterpiece. There is no substitute for the full version.

Puller carried a copy of these works with him throughout WWII and Korea. Enough said.

My uncle had read the three volume series of Mr. Freeman's work on Robert E. Lee's generals and wanted me to do the same. If I start something I like to finish it and I just didn't want to conquer the couple thousand pages in the three volumes so I opted for the one volume abridgement. It is well written, a classic of Civil War history, and gave great insight into the minds and actions of the Confederate military leadership. From reading the introduction this abridgement was made possible not by excising the main text, but by eliminating a majority of the voluminous notes and addendum material present in the three volume series. I don't know what I missed, but what remained was fascinating, extremely readable, and well recommended. At this point I would be very interested in acquiring and reading the three volume set.