DOC The Perfect Lion: The Life and Death of Confederate Artillerist John Pelham by Jerry H. Maxwell in History

Review

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful. History; as it should be told.By kathryn gail ackleyWhen I was seven; I had an older cousin who could juggle; do Yoyo tricks; and tell wonderful scary stories. During long summer days; he orchestrated many adventures that at first did not sound too inviting to some of us. But we were caught in his enthusiasm and went along for many an exciting ride. In like manner; Mr. Maxwell leads his readers through the major battles of the first years of the Civil War. Unless you are a real history buff; you wouldn't expect this telling to constitute a compelling narrative. Part of what makes his strategy work is that Maxwell knows this subject in his bones. Additionally; he has selected a truly compelling young soldier as his focus. Although John Pelham is a confederate; Maxwell tells his story as a universal American of his age.This is the bicentennial of the beginning of the Civil War. I am sure there will be a plethora of new books on the topic. Many will focus on national issues that precipitated the war. Some will focus on the terrible carnage of that conflict. I am sure many will review major battles and the strategies that informed military actions. Lincoln; Lee; Grant and other major players will grace the covers of hefty tomes.This book is not like any of these. Mr. Maxwell engages the reader in the life of John Pelham as the civil war unfolds. He tells the story of a young Alabaman who proved to be an exceptional soldier and an honorable man. Mr. Maxwell takes you; in great detail into the battles fought between the summer of 1861 and the spring of 1863. While Maxwell does not stint on detail; or ignore the human costs of war; he creates a dramatic narrative that catches both your intellect and your heart. We know that John Pelham will die; and while I read with an eager eye; the detail of each chapter lends itself to a slower read that allows you to savor this life; described so vivdly.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. This is an excellent biography written by a man with an appreciation for ...By FlyAWayThis is an incredible book! I could not put it down! Pelham was an incredible talent and charismatic leader that other men; even his superiors; were drawn to. This is an excellent biography written by a man with an appreciation for the abilities of young Pelham. Highly recommend!!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Nathan L. HillOutstanding book and well written