A World on Fire: Britain's Crucial Role in the American Civil War (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780375756962)

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

10 BEST BOOKS - THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW - 2011

NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY
The Washington Post - The New Yorker - Chicago Tribune - The Economist - Nancy Pearl, NPR - Bloomberg.com - Library Journal - Publishers Weekly

In this brilliant narrative, Amanda Foreman tells the fascinating story of the American Civil War--and the major role played by Britain and its citizens in that epic struggle. Between 1861 and 1865, thousands of British citizens volunteered for service on both sides of the Civil War. From the first cannon blasts on Fort Sumter to Lee's surrender at Appomattox, they served as officers and infantrymen, sailors and nurses, blockade runners and spies. Through personal letters, diaries, and journals, Foreman introduces characters both humble and grand, while crafting a panoramic yet intimate view of the war on the front lines, in the prison camps, and in the great cities of both the Union and the Confederacy. In the drawing rooms of London and the offices of Washington, on muddy fields and aboard packed ships, Foreman reveals the decisions made, the beliefs held and contested, and the personal triumphs and sacrifices that ultimately led to the reunification of America.

"Engrossing . . . a sprawling drama."--The Washington Post

"Eye-opening . . . immensely ambitious and immensely accomplished."--The New Yorker

WINNER OF THE FLETCHER PRATT AWARD FOR CIVIL WAR HISTORY

Author: Amanda Foreman
ISBN-10: 0375756965
ISBN-13: 9780375756962
Publisher: Random House Trade
Language: English
Published: 06/12/2012
Pages: 1040
Format: Paperback
Weight: 2.30lbs
Size: 9.20h x 6.00w x 2.00d

Review Citation(s):
New York Times Book Review 07/01/2012 pg. 28