Through Ordinary Eyes: The Civil War Correspondence of Rufus Robbins, Private, 7th Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers

The composure of the novel breathes life into such a dramatic event of U.S. History. 'Through Ordinary Eyes' makes not only the war itself, but the surrounding aspects of family life and personal hardships, understandable and reachable to its readers. Throughout history, war has been battlegrounds for the ordinary persons. This historical recap speaks from the life of not a highly positioned general, but only an average private. As a reader, we are allowed into the personal battle of one private while gaining an overall appreciation for the time and all that it encompasses. Wonderful depth and insight!

I have read many books dealing with the Civil War. This book is reminiscent of James MacPhearson's book Why We Fought.The book is most revealing because not only does it provide primary sources (letters from a soldier to his family over a fifteen-month time span), but also it has response letters from his family, revealing the concerns, sacrifices and dedication of both those at the battles and those at home. It provides us with a window on military history and mid-nineteenth century society.