[Tax-chick]

I got into the Civil War in the mid-80's, and probably started learning about Jackson in particular in the early 90's ... I know I had the name picked out by 1995.

James Robertson's book is extremely well researched. I was disappointed that some of the stories I really liked from other books were probably exaggerations, if not outright fiction! It's a useful reminder that contemporary sources aren't much more likely to be accurate than any others. People who knew a historic figure, or were present at an event, can still make things up for effect, or lie because of a personal agenda, or simply be mistaken.

[carton253]

I am a new comer to the whole Civil War thing. I got interested in it because Gods and Generals was sold out at the video store. So, I rented the movie Gettysburg instead. What a fantastic movie!

When I was able to get Gods and Generals, I watched it, but I didn't like it. But, I had taped it, so I watched it again. It really impacted me the second time. I was intriqued by the character of Jackson, so I began to read alot about him. I found an honorable and decent man whom I admire greatly.

Since then, I have been on a buying and reading binge, reading everything I can about Jackson, his battles, and Gettysburg. This summer, I am planning a trip to Antietam and Gettysburg (just bought my tickets for the re-enactments). I have so much to learn about him and the war. I have been concentrating on the Battle of Chancellorsville... and have read several books about it.

You should get a hold of the book "We Knew Stonewall" if you can. I think you will like it immensely.

Robertson came to our college campus, but I didn't find out about it until a day later. I am hoping that the history department taped it, and I can get ahold of it that way.

I am hoping to tour the Valley, Lexington, and other places that Jackson went. I have my eye on Dabney's book as well...