THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR A Military History

Since audiobooks have no maps, understanding the American Civil War by ear can be difficult. However, author John Keegan gives his account more universal appeal with his inclusion of copious peripheral information about weaponry, supplies, transportation, and politics. His analyses of generalship and tactics come from an abundant curriculum vitae as a European war historian. Narrator Robin Sachs, also British, fits his task to perfection. His taciturn voice finds just the right efficiency, and he has no trouble pronouncing the numerous towns and rivers of the South. He lowers his volume before Gettysburg so as not to alert either army of the battle. Sachs's style never brings itself to the center of attention, instead allowing the details of the lethal conflicts to remain the focus. J.A.H. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2009]