With his low, resonant voice, Cotter Smith does a fine job narrating this detailed biography of Confederate general Stonewall Jackson. Gwynne’s biography is well researched, giving great insight into Jackson as well as those he interacted with. The author’s writing style is easily accessible, and Smith’s voice and delivery match the text well. The details of Jackson’s life—his humble beginnings in the mountains of western Virginia and his proving himself at West Point, Virginia Military Institute, and then in Confederate service—flow smoothly as narrated by Smith. His intonation, pacing, and inflection are spot-on, making this production seem shorter than it actually is. M.T.F. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine
From the Civil War, to the turbulent 20th century, to the pressing issues of globalism and conflict we’re facing today, the year’s best history books look at how politics and leadership play a role in shaping the world. In examining the past, each of the books below offer insight into how we got to where we are, […]
Oftentimes, when people say “history,” they might more accurately say “the history of warfare.” Empires rise and fall on the strength of their military might, and cultures get pulled along with the tide of battle. If you want to understand how we got to where we are today, you need to understand the military, past and present. […]
13 Hours in Benghazi, by Mitchell Zuckoff, is a harrowing account of the tragedy that shook the nation and created a political firestorm. For another in-depth report on the story that won’t go away, you’ll also want to read Under Fire: The Untold Story of the Attack in Benghazi, by Fred Burton & Samuel M. Katz. […]