Voices from the Century Before

A well written book interspersing genuine letters from her family with observations and historical details provided by the author. It is interesting from a "slice of life" perspective but also for the historical record of the Civil War as recorded by those actually experiencing it. It should especially captivate those living in Kentucky and familiar with the towns and families discussed.

This absorbing book, which consists mostly of the actual letters of the Clay family, draws the reader in as well as any fictional account ever could. Few of the letter writers actually see combat, so the book is largely an account of ordinary life against the backdrop of the war. Though some letters offer insight into the political realities and trade-offs of the period, it is the intimate details of everyday life and human relations that fascinate. Mary Clay is never intrusive in her comments that bridge and sometimes explain the letters.