The Civil War

"This readable, concise account…is spliced with quotes from real people, making the facts more personal, and the reader clearly able to identify with the issues that brought the nation to war as well as the effects of the travesty."

BookLinx Book Evaluation Program

"This is a superb nonfiction book full of information and primary sources about the Civil War, at a level perfect for the intended age of reader."

Eastern Washington Book Review Council

"Very well written . . . Contains a wealth of information . . . a good choice for schools who study Civil War."

Garland Independent School District, March 2, 2012

"Mr. Kent succinctly discusses a number of key battles without becoming too graphic about the destruction to the men or the countryside . . . The book presented an overview of the Civil War by studying key battles. It is an easy, interesting read . . ."

Book Buzz, April 2012

". . . a well written account of the American Civil War. It takes a look at both sides of the conflict and doesn’t pull punches as to faults and atrocities on both sides. The book pretty much shows the reader that there are really no winners in any war . . . it was a book that gave many facts in a simple way that middle school students would understand, yet sophisticated enough that they wouldn’t get bored."

Denton Independent School District, April 12, 2012

"These overviews effectively combine history, political action, and military strategies and tactics, providing a readable view on two wars fought on American soil."

The Horn Book Guide, Spring 2012

"While the book discusses the great battles like Appomattox, it includes lesser known ones as well. The language is straightforward, at an accessible level for young researchers . . . A good addition to the middle school collection."

Denver Public Schools, December 7, 2011

". . . this entry helps middle school readers to gain insight into the importance of each battle, the casualties and military leaders . . . the casual reader researcher or struggling reader will appreciate the simpler approach and come away with a good grasp of the horror and importance of this bloody event."

Infolink Book Evaluation Program, May 12, 2011

"These titles would be a nice addition to libraries that have research units on these time periods."

Library Media Connection, May/June 2011

"In telling the story of the Civil War, Kent pays particular attention to military events and personalities . . . A particularly positive aspect of the narrative is the inclusion of a number of primary source quotations from not only major wartime figures but also common soldiers and civilians. Topics such as the emancipation of slaves, women’s role in the war, and the effect of the conflict on the home front all are touched upon in a thoughtful manner. This approach to historical writing results in a general history that helps readers to not only understand the course of events but also the impact the Civil War had upon Americans then and now."

Children's Literature

"A good overview of important aspects of the civil war that will likely peak readers interest and having them looking for more."

Southwest Ohio and Neighboring Libraries, March 8, 2011