Shiloh, 1862

By: Winston Groom

Narrated by: Eric G. Dove

SHILOH, 1862 - The Battle of Shiloh, fought in the wilderness of southern Tennessee in April 1862, marked a violent crossroads in the Civil War. What began as a surprise attack by Confederate troops on a Union stronghold to gain control of the Mississippi River Valley became a bloody two-day conflict that would eerily foretell the brutal reality of the next three years. Pitting up-and-coming Union general Ulysses S. Grant against Confederate firebrand Albert Sidney Johnston, the engagement was a perfect storm of advanced weaponry, a West Point–educated officer corps, and a decades-long buildup of hatred that bore devastating consequences. One hundred thousand soldiers clashed in the vicious melee, and losses for both sides totaled nearly 24,000, more than had been lost during the American Revolution and the War of 1812 combined. Bestselling author and Civil War historian Winston Groom skillfully re-creates the drama of the event in a gripping, eye-opening, and heartrending narrative that highlights the major personalities, politics, and mind-set of the day. But perhaps the most alarming outcome, Groom poignantly reveals, was the realization that for all its horror, the Battle of Shiloh had not vanquished the Rebel army in the West, and the thousands of maimed and slain were merely wretched symbols of things to come.

©2012 Winston Groom (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

thought provoking

intriguing examination of Grant and Beauregard at shilo. evenly and balanced recitation of events surrounding the first large scale union victory.

Shades of Shelby Foote

I must admit, my exposure to Civil War histories has been somewhat sparse. However, I noticed this title and decided to give it a try. I was not disappointed in the least. Groom's history provides some wonderful personal insights from civilians and soldiers present at this tragic battle and the depth of loss experienced by all sides. I was intrigued by the personal backstabbing by senior Union officers toward Grant and Sherman. It is no wonder that the first few years of the war were so difficult for the Union with the likes of McClelland and Halleck in positions of command. Likewise, Groom's portrayal of A.S. Johnson is equally fascinating. Shiloh and, for that matter, the outcome of the Civil War would probably been much different if Johnson had not died so early in the battle.

This is a first rate history and Eric Dove's narration is superb. I looked forward to listening to the 10+ hours of the book and will probably search out additional works by Winston Groom

Full of history

Loved the book and all of the extra details. I really liked the way Winston Groom not only told the story but also the extra stories of many of the people on both sides.
If you like history, you will love this book

One of the Best Civil War Books

If you could sum up Shiloh, 1862 in three words, what would they be?

Very informative and entertaining

What other book might you compare Shiloh, 1862 to and why?

Similar to Rebel Yell which is another book that took me surprise. Both were engrossing.

A good introductory narrative

Liked the human vignettes and first prison recollections. Long introductory section useful for those not familiar with the war, the Western Theater, or the origins of the battle