The Killer Angels

Amazon.com

This novel reveals more about the Battle of Gettysburg than any piece of learned nonfiction on the same subject. Michael Shaara's account of the three most important days of the Civil War features deft characterizations of all of the main actors, including Lee, Longstreet, Pickett, Buford, and Hancock. The most inspiring figure in the book, however, is Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, whose 20th Maine regiment of volunteers held the Union's left flank on the second day of the battle. This unit's bravery at Little Round Top helped turned the tide of the war against the rebels. There are also plenty of maps, which convey a complete sense of what happened July 1-3, 1863. Reading about the past is rarely so much fun as on these pages.

Book Description

"My favorite historical novel...A superb re-creation of the Battle of Gettysburg, but its real importance is its insight into what the war was about, and what it meant."
JAMES M. McPHERSON
Author of BATTLE CRY OF FREEDOM
Winner of the 1975 Pulitzer Prize for fiction
In the four most bloody and courageous days of our nation's history, two armies fought for two dreams. One dreamed of freedom, the other of a way of life. Far more than rifles and bullets were carried into battle. There were memories. There were promises. There was love. And far more than men fell on those Pennsylvania fields. Shattered futures, forgotten innocence, and crippled beauty were also the casualties of war. Unique, sweeping, an unforgettable, THE KILLER ANGELS is a dramatic re-creation of the battleground for America's destiny.

Customer Reviews:

If you have the slightest interest in the Civil War, don't fail to read the late Michael Shaara's book "The Killer Angels".......2007-10-04

If you have the slightest interest in the Civil War, don't fail to read the late Michael Shaara's book "The Killer Angels". It won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1974.

For some reason this book had never crossed my path. It wasn't until Father's Day this year that I was even aware of its existence. My 27 year old son gave me a DVD that had both Gods and Generals and Gettysburg on it. In reading the jacket of the DVD I saw the movie was based on this book. After watching the movie, I headed off to the library. I was not disappointed.

This volume shows both the courage and determination of the Union and Confederate soldiers. It examines the story from both viewpoints. You are told the story through the key leadership of the battle. You will read about Robert E. Lee. You will learn what his decisions were based on. You will see why he was so beloved by his army. The book allows you to be present as Lee struggles with decision after decision from his headquarters. You can feel the frustration of Longstreet as he tries to convince Lee that defense is a better choice. You will get a picture of the flamboyant Pickett. You will feel Lee's and Longstreet's frustration with J.E.B. Stuart. I met a new hero in the book - Joshua Lawrence Chamberlin as I read about the 20th Maine Regiment and Chamberlain who with a bayonet charge on Little Big Top held the end of the Union line. Another new hero I encountered was General John Buford. You will experience his anguish as he decides to engage Rebel forces. He knows that he was seriously outnumbered. He is determined to save the only high ground in the area.

I was emotionally involved in the book from the beginning to the end. This is the book that blurs the line between historical fiction and creative non-fiction. It is simply great reading. While the movie was good, the book is great. Michael Shaara had the vision, did the research, and wrote one of the best books ever. Thank you!

Glorifies Battle, but Does So Compellingly. . . .......2007-10-01

I am not a civil war buff, but I enjoy historical fiction, and I decided to read this book for its Pulitzer Prize and what it might teach me about the Battle of Gettysburg. On these fronts it delivered as advertised. Although the book is about 90% brooding and waiting for battle and only 10% battle, the writing is compelling enough to hold one's interest through the brooding and to teach me more than I ever knew about the strategies, generals, turning points, blunders and significance of Gettysburg --- or at least the author's views on these points.

Nonetheless, I found myself consistently detatched from the characters and the action. The story is told exclusively from the perspective of the officers in the battle and, for the most part, from that of the southern officers. This is not to say it has a southern bias; indeed blame is placed on Southern hero Lee and the book elevates Southern "scoundrel" Longstreet. It is just that, ultimately, I was not capable of sympathy or admiration for their bravery, honor and nobility, in which the book invests heavily. My own views about slavery and the south are just too strong. Its like reading about the qualms and struggles of German aristocrats in the Nazi army. Interesting, but they are so fundamentally on the wrong side that neither admirable traits nor understanding of their perspective can produce empathy, redemption or even forgiveness. And, as to the horrors of war and soldiering, the gritty, more soldier oriented view of, say, a Cold Mountain, remained foremost in my mind.

excellent book, even if you are not a buff.......2007-08-12

I remember seeing the movie "Gettysburg" when it first opened
in the early nineties. It magnificently brought to life the "glory"
and tragedy of thousands of men in a napoleonic charge. The
book matches the movie in that respect, but it also provides
insights into the motives of several of the main participants in
a way that a movie cannot (mostly generals Lee and Longstreet
on one side and Colonel Chamberlain on the other). My understanding
is that the book is as true to history as a novelization can be.
However, it is also extremely readable - I wish somebody pointed
me to it when I was reading about the civil war in highschool.
I am looking forward to reading Jeff Shaara's two books that
complete the trilogy.

Historical Fiction at it's Best.......2007-07-28

Ever wonder what it was really like those 3 days in July at the Battle of Gettysburg? Was it hot, what did the men wear, what did they eat, how did they pass the time, who were the leaders of the regiments? Good historical fiction brings characters to life. Great historical fiction like that of Pulitzer Prize winner Michael Shaara makes you believe you are there.
You've learned about the battle in school, now read Killer Angels and feel what is was like to be part of the battle. Read about Robert E. Lee, what his decisions were based on and why he was so beloved by his army. Be present as he struggles with decision after decision from his headquarters. Feel the frustration of Longstreet as he tries to convince Lee of another course. Learn about the flamboyant Pickett and the egocentric J.E.B. Stuart. Go to the Union camp and read about the 20th Maine Regiment and Chamberlain who with sheer determination hold the precious ground on Little Big Top with a bayonet charge. Imagine and feel Buford's decision to engage Rebel forces, knowing that he was seriously outnumbered but determined to save the only high ground in the area.
I was mesmerized and emotionally involved in the book from the beginning to the end. It isn't just a story of a battle, it's the story of our nation and the men who fought and died for what they believed in. A great novel!

Great book!.......2007-07-03

THe Killer Angels makes the battle of Gettysburg come alive for the reader. Shaara takes historical facts and injects the human dimension which makes the novel both educational and a page turner. Highly recommend that people of all ages read this masterpiece and immerse themselves in the most turbulent period of our nation's history.

Average customer rating:

A must listen!!!!
Review of Killer Angels By john Macdonald
Easy transaction.
Wonderful book. Flawed narrator.
killer Angels audio tape

The Killer Angels
Michael Shaara
Manufacturer: Random House Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

War | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Books on CD | Audiobooks | Formats | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0739309056
Release Date: 2004-05-11

Book Description

A reissue of a Pulitzer prize-winning classic, and now the major motion picture GETTYSBURG. As a result of these acclamations, this book is considered one of the greatest novels written on the Civil War.

From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

A must listen!!!!.......2007-05-20

I drive 23 miles one way to work and books on cd are a great pleasure to listen to. The book The Killer Angles is a must read. Any history Buff, especially any Civil War buff who has not read this book you don't know what your missing.

Review of Killer Angels By john Macdonald.......2007-05-17

A well researched historical novel with a fictional dialogue which enhances the readers appreciation of this terrible battle.

Easy transaction........2007-03-08

My husband hasn't listened to the book yet but I was pleased to find it on audio and I rec'd it very quickly. I know he'll enjoy it as I have already read the book.

Wonderful book. Flawed narrator. .......2006-10-15

This is a wonderful book to read but a terrible audio book to listen to. The narrator is so affected and languid sounding that it drains the energy from the novel. I could not have imagined anything taking away from the action of this book but the narrator's voice is so slow and languid that it's annoying. Almost sounds comical at times. I can only guess that they wanted it to sound genuinely "Southern" but I come from Texas and never heard a southern accent like that, except for Blanche DuBois. Really too bad because it's a wonderful book.

killer Angels audio tape.......2005-09-27

this is a great tape for al interested in the Civil War. quick reponse and delivery.

The Killer Angels: A Novel of the Civil War (Modern Library)

Average customer rating:

Phenomenal!!!
A thoughtful surprise
A great history lesson
Couldn't put it down
A Great Novel

The Killer Angels: A Novel of the Civil War (Modern Library)
Michael Shaara
Manufacturer: Modern Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

War | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0679643249
Release Date: 2004-11-02

Book Description

Customer Reviews:

Phenomenal!!!.......2007-06-26

I became totally enthralled with the Civil War after reading this masterpiece. His story-telling style caught me off guard and I absolutely flew through this book. Thankfully his son has picked up the torch to complete the finest historical series I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Be sure to read Gods & Generals and Last Full Measure. I was moved to tears on more than one occasion.

A thoughtful surprise.......2007-06-14

I found this book to be insightful and thought provoking. It is chock full of details and antidoted stories. It reads well and was a pleasure to read as a pastime.

A great history lesson.......2007-03-30

The author brings the Battle of Gettysburg and the Civil War to life in this wonderful novel. He uses the alternating views from the officers of both sides of the conflict, thus making you feel as you are right with them, culminating in the horrific and tragic end of the battle.

There is a whole lot more to the tale than you remember from our history lessons in school (public schools = nothing much learned), and I was truly saddened by the incredible loss of life due to the mistakes of the priveleged few, the generals. No wonder they say Gettysburg is one of the most haunted places in America.

Highly recommended, an entertaining read and an excellent history lesson in the bargain.

Couldn't put it down.......2007-03-26

I don't understand how he did it....but he actually made me feel some sympathy for the South.

A Great Novel.......2007-02-19

This is the greatest novel I have read, maybe ever. You don't have to be a history or Civil War buff to appreciate the human emotions brought out through the story. Very well written; I was drawn into the men's lives and could feel their energy. I felt especially empathetic for Longstreet, towards the final battle, when he really knows (I mean he KNOWS) what is going to happen to his men when they charge up the hill, but he has to give the order to advance anyway. Any writer who can make you feel so strongly for their characters and sit there telling Longstreet not to do it!! then in my opinion, they have created a masterpiece of literature. Bravo.

The Civil War Trilogy: Gods and Generals / The Killer Angels / The Last Full Measure

Average customer rating:

Outstanding trilogy, a must for history lovers
Five star general
2 out of three ain't bad
Great Set
History as novel rather than historical novels

The Civil War Trilogy: Gods and Generals / The Killer Angels / The Last Full Measure
Jeff Shaara , and Michael Shaara
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

War | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0345433726
Release Date: 1999-04-27

Amazon.com

Author Jeff M. Shaara rounds out the Civil War Trilogy started by his late father Michael Shaara, whose book The Killer Angels described the Battle of Gettysburg. While Gods and Generals covered action prior to Gettysburg, The Last Full Measure picks up with Confederate General Robert E. Lee's retreat from Pennsylvania and continues through the end of the war. The younger Shaara focuses on the characters of Lee and Union commander Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, both of whom play prominent roles in the earlier books. He also introduces a new one: Ulysses S. Grant, the Union general who would finally defeat the South--something no soldier before him could manage. The Last Full Measure is often exciting and poignant, and fans of The Killer Angels and Gods and Generals won't be disappointed. A nicely boxed edition of this classic historical fiction. --John Miller

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding trilogy, a must for history lovers.......2007-04-04

These three books should be required reading in school. Very eye opening to the horrors of war.

Gods and Generals - Fascinating portrayal of a sad time in US History, as told from the perspectives of the generals involved in these campaigns. I was most particularly moved by Lee and his torn loyalties to the US Army and his home state of Virginia, and most especially by the great Stonewall Jackson. I've come across the names in history classes (oh so long ago) and the occasional novel covering this period, but it was wonderful to have them brought to life as this author did, and we are once again reminded that was is indeed h***. One moment in the book that particularly touched me was during a retreat of Federal soldiers. One of them slipped in the mud and was told that since the general decreed the roads to be in good condition therefore there is no mud. Four stars instead of five as the author's habit of inserting a comma instead of the word "and" was a bit of a distration for me.

The Killer Angels - The author brings the Battle of Gettysburg and the Civil War to life in this wonderful novel. He uses the alternating views from the officers of both sides of the conflict, thus making you feel as you are right with them, culminating in the horrific and tragic end of the battle. I was truly saddened by the incredible loss of life due to the mistakes of the priveleged few, the generals. No wonder they say Gettysburg is one of the most haunted places in America.

The Last Full Measure - I think this book, and the two preceding it should be required reading in school. I had no idea how horrific this war was, particularly more so as the brutalities committed on both sides were against our own. There were so many moments when I wanted to stop and cry for the loss of life, and especially at the end when the one man who was capable of healing the country and bringing us all back together as one nation, Abraham Lincoln, was assassinated.

The research was impeccable and telling the story from the viewpoints of the various generals absolutely fascinating. The honorable Robert E. Lee, Chamberlain (loved his gracious salute to the surrendering army), and the ever fascinating U.S. Grant.

One quote from so many in the book that just brought tears to my eyes: "Yes, it was horrible, horrible indeed. But he had to tell himself that, remind himself to see it that way. There was no sickening revulsion, no outrage, no indignation at the barbarism. It was just one more scene from this war, one more horror, one more mass of death, blending together with all the rest."

Highly highly recommended.

Five star general.......2007-01-24

Shaara has the ability to allow the reader to know the generals and soldiers in the Civil War. He must have read countless books in preparation, for he includes details that I haven't read before. Shaara takes the reader to the battlefield, and we learn the strategies and accidents of each battle. Shaara takes the reader to each general's tent, and we find out the strengths and weaknesses of each man. We learn about the horrible wounds and the lack of medical training to treat them. Each battle is described as though Shaara had been there and were writing a diary. The Last Full Measure gives the sorrow of the loss and the dignity of the surrender.

2 out of three ain't bad.......2007-01-16

Having read THE KILLER ANGELS many years ago, I was of course, very excited when the son followed his father's brilliant work. With GODS AND GENERALS, I was left wanting more. The charaters were most interesting and the setting was naturally very exciting. That period of the war was cresting for the south and with a little good fortune, things might've ended much differently, and much sooner. Along comes THE LAST FULL MEASURE. Needing to tie up the war in a nice neat package, Schaara, I think, pushes the ending upon the reader. We all know how it ended, It didn't need to be forced. With more new interesting characters to develop, it could've and should've flowed mush easier to its foreknown conclusion. I have not read any of his books since, and maybe that's unfair. I think I will sit down and check out THE GLORIOUS CAUSE next. He might have simply been overwhelmed trying to match his father's brilliance. But for anyone who has recently discovered this collaboration
either through school or word of mouth or even by watching TNT, embrace them and realize the love and passion that is being recounted through these novels. There will never be another time when so many give their "last full measure" because it's the right thing to do.

Great Set.......2005-11-04

Maybe a somewhat romanticized view of history and war (mostly heroism, very little drudgery, boredom, disease, and discomfort) but captivating, nonetheless. I was given this set as a gift from a friend. While I am very grateful because I enjoyed all the books so much, I'm a little annoyed with my buddy for unintentionally stealing all of my free time. I just couldn't stop reading them. I went from book to book over the course of about 2 ½ weeks.

Shaara is a master of providing a voice to the legendary generals of a long concluded war. He provides so much detail about the strengths and idiosyncrasies of these men, that you feel as if you almost know them personally. What's more, as you turn the pages it seems almost possible to anticipate their actions based upon your personal insight into their characters. As you pour over the descriptions of the battles and maps of troop placements, you want to shout to the generals, "Don't you see that you're flanked? Get the heck out of there!" But perhaps the most unique experience for me, was finding that I felt for the generals on both sides of the conflict. Instead of having the almost hardwired reaction to the confederacy of, "you are supporting an immoral practice (slavery) therefore you're evil," I, for the first time, understand how so many decent, moral men became embroiled in the conflict. For that insight, I thank Mr. Shaara.

History as novel rather than historical novels.......2005-10-04

These three books are excellent because they are well written, nice to read (difficult to put down)and are good history too, because everything is rigorously researched.
I am a "civil war buff" who has read quite a few "real history books" on the same subjects, like "High Tide at Gettysburg" by Glenn Tucker (pretty good one volume account of the battle) and " Lee" by Douglas Southall Freeman (a biography that Shaara probably used extensively), and seen the two movies Gettysburg and Gods and Generals, based on the novels.
You probably enjoy the novels better if you already have read more thorough accounts of the battles and "seen" them on film, photo, paintings,etc. If you re-enact, you are getting even closer.
The main differences are in the rythm, as history books tend to cover everything in depth, and these novels only pick the more dramatic scenes and shorten all the rest. The emotional, the purely human aspects are more highlighted as well.
The result of both Shaaras' work is that you have the impression to be there with the characters, you can see their human side (good biographies can also reach that result). But if you have all the civil war " culture", you are also better able to visualize the story, if you know what the places,the uniforms, equipment, etc. looked like. You enjoy the books even more. In the end, you also realize that war really is a terrible thing (and you still do not see pictures of corpses...) and that as Robert E.Lee himself said, after Fredericksburg, " it is well that war is so terrible, otherwise we would become too fond of it".
Everytime I finish a book on war, I feel disgust at the wastage it represents and still I come back and read another one. This was no exception.
People who loved these books should read "The battle" and "The retreat", by Patrick Rambaud (translated from French). They cover the napoleonic battles of Vienna in 1808 and the Russian campaign of 1812 in the same vein. They are also extremely well written. There is a 3rd volume on Napoleon's exile in Elba but it is apparently not available in English yet.

I Was a Killer for the Hells Angels: The Story of Serge Quesnal

Average customer rating:

I Was a Killer for the Hells Angles: The Story of Serger Quesnal
sing loud and cash the check
Money making scheme for author
I was a killer for the Hells Angels: The Story of Serge
Don't waste your time.....

I Was a Killer for the Hells Angels: The Story of Serge Quesnal
Pierre Martineau
Manufacturer: McClelland & Stewart
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Gangs | Crime & Criminals | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

Murder & Mayhem | True Accounts | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

True Crime | True Accounts | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

General | Biographies & Memoirs | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0771054920
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Book Description

The shocking confession of a five-time murderer

When I arrived at the restaurant, my boss gave me a wad of $20 bills, which amounted to some $2,000. He was acting as though money was burning a hole in his pockets. But this suited me fine. Melou often acted that way. He didn’t want me to run out of money. A happy killer is a productive killer.…

When he was fifteen years old, Serge Quesnel started hanging out in strip bars and committing minor thefts and burglaries. He soon became known to the police. He learned more about crime when he served time, first in a detention centre, and then later in the infamous Donnacona federal penitentiary. On his release, he was ready to realize his true ambition, to become a confederate of the Hells Angels.

To achieve this ambition, he set out to prove that he could hurt, maim, and kill people efficiently and without a qualm. His first murder victim was a drug dealer who was giving the local Angels chapter trouble. He and a friend beat the dealer to a pulp and then calmly wiped the crime scene clean of fingerprints. The Angels were impressed. He moved to Trois-Rivières and became a full-time enforcer.

Quesnel, having now “sold out” to the authorities and assumed a new identity, tells his story of violence and betrayal in chilling detail to Quebec journalist, Pierre Martineau. The resulting chronicle is a modern crime classic.

Customer Reviews:

I Was a Killer for the Hells Angles: The Story of Serger Quesnal.......2005-09-30

Not such a hot book. I would read other books on the subject.

sing loud and cash the check.......2005-02-23

A rat is a rat......is a rat. I guess this guy and others like him (see Henry Hill and Sammy the Bull) feel if they can make some money getting average citizens to read about their exploits maybe they can justify (to themselves) their betrayal of their friends and brothers. You'd be wise to save your money and not make these kinds any richer...especially one like this who is short on details when it comes to his association with the Angels. In my opinion he only used their name to help sell the book. Don't bother. Read Sonny's instead.

Money making scheme for author.......2004-08-08

Very poor insight into the Red and White which is why I bought the book.Comes across as a wannabe who could'nt cut it when the going got tough.

I was a killer for the Hells Angels: The Story of Serge.......2004-01-17

Not a very good or entertaining book. More of a ramblimg egomaniac's diary. The book did not contain much detail on the events and jumped around way too much. He tries to make himself into a heavy and when it got hot he turned.

Don't waste your time............2003-11-08

I thought this book would give a better insight into the world of the HA, but I came away disappointed. Quesnel's story is interesting and controversial, but I don't think his story reveals enough details.

Courage on Little Round Top: A Historical Novel

Average customer rating:

Fluff !
Gettysburg history lesson
Commendable in a lightweight sort of way
Following in the footsteps of "The Killer Angels"
Ranks With the Best in Civil War Novels

Courage on Little Round Top: A Historical Novel
Thomas M. Eishen
Manufacturer: Skyward Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

War | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1881554384

Book Description

Michael Shaara's The Killer Angels is the sweeping story of the Battle of Gettysburg told from the point of view of officers from both sides of the fight. Thomas Eishen's Courage on Little Round Top is a detailed look at one of the battle's most be

Customer Reviews:

Fluff !.......2007-02-16

The author credits Michael Shaara's "Killer Angels" as being responsible for the start of his interest in the Civil War. This novel is a piece of lightweight fluff which I find difficult to read because boredom sets in quickly. Most of the book is meaningless dialogue and character's thoughts which do little to inspire the reader.
As an avid Civil War buff who has read plenty of history, both primary and secondary source material, finds enough historical inaccuracies in this book to wonder how it ever managed to find a publisher. Characters wander around the novel with no good reason. Major historical figures make an appearance with little connection to the fictional characters and the true story of the battle on Little Round Top. The author takes forever to set the scene for that struggle and the reader has to struggle with boredom to ever reach that point in the novel.
I have visited the battlefield at Gettysburg many time since my first trip at the age of 2. I have walked the field many times in many years. Eishen may have made a visit to the monument to the 20th Maine, but I wonder if he climbed Little Round Top by the route of attack by the Alabama regiments.
I had expected more mention of the other units involved in this engagement and I was sadly disappointed.
As an aside, there are enough typos and mispellings throughout the book which make it even more annoying.

Gettysburg history lesson.......2007-01-13

Thomas Eishen nails a good one. Gettysburg is perhaps the greatest single battle of the civil war in terms of how the war ended. Eishen does an excellent job in novel form to keep the reader's attention. Written similar to the style of Jeff Shaara, one will not have a hard time reading this one. It is not boring history. It is an easy and enjoyable read and will add knowledge to what you think you might know about Gettysburg. Buy it. Enjoy it.
C Park

Commendable in a lightweight sort of way.......2006-12-01

After seeing the Civil War epic Gettysburg (Widescreen Edition) when it was first released, I made a special trip cross-country to the battlefield and, like the author of COURAGE ON LITTLE ROUND TOP, stood at the monument to the 20th Maine at the left extremity of the Union line and paid silent tribute to Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain and his regiment which waged there such a stalwart defense. In a contemporary world so lacking in heroes, I put the gallant Chamberlain on a modestly tall pedestal, an atypical action that even survived my subsequent reading of the man's biography, In the Hands of Providence: Joshua L. Chamberlain and the American Civil War.

Here, author Thomas Eishen strives to add a human side to the battle for Little Round Top on the second day of the Gettysburg collision by re-creating in novel format the thoughts, words, and actions of Chamberlain and one of his opponents, 2nd Lieutenant Robert Wicker of the 15th Alabama Regiment, as they may have occurred during the couple of days prior to and during the assault.

It was the fictionalization of the days prior that perhaps reduced this book in my estimation inasmuch as Chamberlain and his regiment are assigned their do-or-die position by brigade commander Col. Strong Vincent only on page 250 of this 289-page volume. So, if you're hoping for an exhaustive immersion in the struggle for the hill, forget it. Rather, the preceding pages are filled, much like GETTYSBURG the film, with protagonists' dialog and mental preoccupations that are, at best, plausible but unremarkable script-filler and, at worst, an inane look at men under arms as they swan about the countryside pre-battle. Moreover, I was singularly unimpressed with the very few maps accompanying the text. Indeed, the one showing the opposing lines on Little Round Top was not much bigger than a postage stamp and would've required the use of a magnifying glass had I cared to bother with it.

I'm at obvious odds with other 5-star reviews of COURAGE ON LITTLE ROUND TOP. Perhaps my expectations were too great. In any case, I wouldn't recommend spending the money for this title unless you're seeking a very light read for an airplane trip to Pennsylvania, in which case it's perfectly satisfactory.

Following in the footsteps of "The Killer Angels".......2006-09-02

If you have read Michael Shaara's "The Killer Angels" and Stephen Crane's "The Red Badge of Courage" you have an excellent basis to read and enjoy Thomas Eishen's novel that combines some of the aspects of both. This book features Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, a prominent character in Shaara's novel, and Lt. Robert Wicker, who is only alluded to by Shaara.
Eishen's novel unfolds around the impending confrontation between these two men on July 2, 1863 on Little Round Top during the Battle of Gettysburg. Wicker, whose unit is the 15th Alabama, had fled the scene during a previous battle, and, like Private Henry Fleming in "The Red Badge of Courage" worries that he in fact may be a coward. Since many of the soldiers in his company are friends and relatives from back home in Alabama, his fear is that a repeat performance in battle will make him a laughingstock and he will become an embarrassment to his family members. Chamberlain, on the other hand, has to deal with his two well-intentioned but meddlesome brothers who are members of his staff.
Eishen does a fine job of relating the evolution of these events through dialogue fashioned for these characters. The run-up to the actual confrontation between Chamberlain and Wicker is an interesting perspective on the daily lives of the common soldier in camp and while on the march.
First time novelist Thomas Eishen has done a commendable job of describing these fast-paced events, and readers will find that the situation only alluded to in "The Killer Angels" takes on new meaning, and the characters involved come alive.

Ranks With the Best in Civil War Novels.......2006-07-17

Thomas Eishen's "Courage on Little Round Top" proved extemely satisfying to an avid civil war reader. Meticulous research and attention to detail brought to life the story of Union Colonel Joshua Chamberlain and his battlefield opponent, the Confederate 2nd Lieutenant Robert Wicker. Eishen's treatment of the subject showed a side of Chamberlain I had not been introduced to before and Wicker's role in this historical novel gave me a new understanding of the events that took place at Gettysburg in the Battle of Little Round Top. Though packed with historical fact, the book was an enjoyable read, a vivid glimpse of the American past. I wish I had read the book before a recent visit to the Gettysburg Battlefield. Even so, my memory (and photos) of the battle site are more real for this reading. As a real enthusiast of American Civil War History, I highly recommend this book for a pleasurable journey into the world of two memorable characters, the well-known Chamberlain and the lesser-known, though no less interesting Lt. Wicker. I look forward to more from the author.

Average customer rating:

THE KILLER ANGELS
Michael Shaara
Manufacturer: Davd McKay
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000NZXM7U

Average customer rating:

Helped me read through it

The Killer Angels (Cliffs Notes)
Debra A. Bailey
Manufacturer: Cliffs Notes
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Reference | Books & Reading | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Classics | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Book Notes | Education | Reference | Subjects | Books

Literature | Encyclopedias | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Writing | Reference | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All Amazon Upgrade | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Literature & Fiction | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Reference | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Cliffs Notes | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Literature & Fiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Reference | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0764585495

Book Description

The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background. The latest generation of titles in this series also feature glossaries and visual elements that complement the classic, familiar format.

With CliffsNotes on The Killer Angels, you gain insight into the novel, which tells the story of the Battle of Gettysburg from the points of view of four main characters. Get a glimpse of the realities of war, with its losses and tragedies, and the motivations and deep emotions of the men there.

This study guide carries you through this terrible and bloody event by providing chapter summaries and critical analyses. You'll also gain insight into life on the battlefield, the problems that officers and soldiers faced, how decisions were made, and the effect of those decisions. Other features that help you study include

Character analyses of major players
A character map that graphically illustrates the relationships among the characters
Critical essays and theme discussions
A review section that tests your knowledge
Glossaries of key words and terms

Classic literature or modern modern-day treasure — you'll understand it all with expert information and insight from CliffsNotes study guides.

Download Description

The book tells the story of the Battle of Gettysburg from the points of view of four main characters: Lee and Longstreet on the Confederate side, and Buford and Chamberlain on the Union side. It retells actual events day by day and conveys the emotions felt by participants in the most famous battle of the Civil War.

Michael Shaara's choice of characters enables him to describe the action and battle strategy from many levels of command and from various locations.

Customer Reviews:

Helped me read through it.......2000-08-27

The book itself, The Killer Angels, was not a difficult read. In fact, it's a really good book. The cliff notes however, help you to understand some of the millitary talk you may have skipped through. I personally like Barron'S book notes better, but they haven't done a Killer Angels review yet. I suggest this book to anyone who needs to read this book (for summer reading, AP US History)... it helps you to understand and study for a test better.

Average customer rating:

A satisfied reader
A Historian's Critical Eye
Not What I really Expected
Exactly what I wanted.
Historical context for a great story

A Killer Angels Companion
D. Scott Hartwig
Manufacturer: Thomas Publications (PA)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0939631954

Book Description

The popularity of Michael Shaara's Pulitzer Prize winning novel, The Killer Angels, is legendary. There are currently six million copies in print. But how faithful to the truth was this novelist's view of the Battle of Gettysburg and its key figures? What happened to the major characters after Gettysburg? After 20 years as historian at Gettysburg National Military Park, few know the battle or battlefield better than Scott Hartwig. In this informative book, he answers these questions and more. if you have ever read and loved The Killer Angels, than this book will be a wonderful and welcome read.

Customer Reviews:

A satisfied reader.......2006-06-17

This book was just what I was looking for after finishing The Killer Angels, my friend who lives near Gettysburg recommended Mr. Hartwig's book to me. I enjoyed The Killer Angels but I don't know enough about the Battle of Gettysburg to be able to discern fact from dramatization that one expects in fiction. I think this book was well worth the money spent. I plan to give the books together as a gift. A great companion!

A Historian's Critical Eye.......2003-04-22

As a long time resident of South Central PA, I have visited Gettysburg dozens of times, have read 'The Killer Angels', seen the movie, read the Companion and have had the privilege to attend talks and tours given by Scott Hartwig.

Both in his talks and in the forward to 'Companion', Hartwig is genuinely complimentary of Shaara's work. But within his text, Hartwig's tenor seems to take a lawyer-like argumentative turn. I do not believe that he does so out of any malicious intent to undermine Shaara's fine work. Instead, I believe that Hartwig is attempting -as advertised- to create a clear deliniation between fact and fiction. Perhaps he could have reinforced his stated respect for Shaara the novelist throughout the 'Companion' but ultimately, Hartwig's loyalties are with historical fact. To that end he is quite successful. That in remaining faithful to fact, he has unintentionally stepped on toes is unfortunate because I truly believe that Hartwig does indeed hold Shaara in very high regard.

A very good companion.

Not What I really Expected.......2001-08-02

I was excited when I bought this book as I loved the Killer Angels, but after buying this book during a recent visit to Gettysburg I was a bit disapointed. Hartwig does not really say what is accurate in the novel, instead he argues against what Shaara writes. He focuses on Lee, Chamberlain, Buford, Longstreet, and a bit on Pickett and Armisted but virtually ignores the other characters in the novel. Tom Chamberlain, Ellis Spear, Kilrain, Trimble, Pettigrew, Kemper, Garnett, and Harrison. I was personally more interested in these minor characters than in the ones that I already knew about, and this nook did not expand my knowledge of them. To me, this book was ok but not really what I expected.

Exactly what I wanted........2001-05-05

When visiting Gettysburg National Military Park, considering its grand scale, it is best to have the facts when trying to picture in your mind what happened there. Scott Hartwig's descriptive book does just that by clarifying the difference between reality and the fiction work of Killer Angels by Shaara.

The "Companion" was a pleasure to read.

Historical context for a great story.......2001-03-22

I did not have deep prior knowledge of the battle of Gettysburg before enjoying The Killer Angels (and the movie Gettysburg, which was based on it). I loved the book but I spent a lot of time wondering just where the facts ended and the fiction began. The Killer Angels Companion supplies some thoughtful answers. It does not debunk Shaara's work at all. Instead, it highlights the historical context where dramatic requirements led Shaara to simplify and focus his story. It doesn't take anything away from the book, and you realize, fairly quickly, that you agree with the choices Shaara made, and why. Hartwig worked as a historian at Gettysburg. After The Killer Angels was published, he probably was asked the fact vs. fiction question hundreds of times. Here, he has written the answers down for a wider audience. This book (really just a pamphlet) is not to be judged on whether it's a good read on its own, just whether it enhances our appreciation of The Killer Angels itself, and on that count it is quite satisfying.

Average customer rating:

Pivotal Three Days.

The Killer Angels
Michael Shaara
Manufacturer: Birlinn Ltd
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Literature & Fiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 1841580821

Customer Reviews:

Pivotal Three Days........2007-07-20

I was always interested in Americas' Civil War and had read some excellent books on the subject such as "A Brotherhood of Valor", "Through Blood and Fire at Gettysburg", "Battle Cry of Freedom" but "The Killer Angels" is a very special one.

Late Michael Shaara has performed an excellent research on private papers of this battle protagonist. Based on this material he produce a griping story, presenting the men that march to the tragic encounter, with their ideals, memories, sorrows, doubts & hopes.
He follows Generals Lee and Longstreet, Colonel Chamberlain amongst others, penetrating their most intimate thoughts in a way the reader can't avoid wondering how this is possible.
Mr. Shaara does not pick sides, he presents the reader with the confronting "Cause", which every man into the field believes to be just, and for which is willing to shed his blood. The valor and self sacrifice these men deploy, is reflected in each page of this incredible good book.

Enough maps are shown enabling the reader to follow the displacement of the armies in the field.
For the readers interested in this matter, Michael's son, Jeff, has written "Gods & Generals" and "The Last Full Measure" telling the events preceding and following this crucial struggle.

A great stuff to be read by history buffs or casual readers. Enjoy!!!.

Reviewed by Max Yofre.

Books:

Books Index

Books Home

Recommended Books