Morgan Reynolds Publishing Inc

Wisconsin Bookwatch, April, 2005

Morgan Reynolds Publishing Inc.

620 South Elm Street, Suite 223, Greensboro, NC 27406

www.morganreynolds.com

Morgan Reynolds presents two new biographies intended especially for young adult and teen readers interested in learning more about the pivotal figures of the American Civil War. Ulysses S. Grant: Defender Of The Union (1931798486, $24.95) tells about the humble-born reluctant attendant of the United States Military Academy at West Point, following his career from his distinguished service in the Mexican War to how his organizational skills and bravery earned him an appointment as the supreme commander of the U.S. Army, a post that he eventually used to force General Robert E. Lee's surrender. Grant's two-term presidence, rife as it was with scandal by those Grant trusted the most, is also discussed. Black-and-white and full-color illustrations, photographs, and artworks fill this highly readable biography. Victory In Destruction: The Story Of William Tecumseh Sherman ($24.95) offers a similar treatment of the U.S. General best known for his infamous torching of Atlanta followed by his devastating march to the sea. Sherman's life was a struggle for survival; he possessed a fierce temper, and even though he supported slaveholding he felt that preserving the Union absolutely superseded all other concerns. To this day his twin legacies--one as a hero who was critical to preserving the union, the other as a bloodletter who inflicted terrible suffering upon the people of the South--make him difficult to define. Victory in Destruction offers an evenhanded and non-judgemental look at both sides of General Sherman, encouraging young readers to decide for themselves based on history. Both volumes are highly recommended and welcome additions to school and public library history and biography shelves.