Civil War Book Review: The New Gettysburg Campaign Handbook

THE NEW GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN HANDBOOK: Facts, Photos, and Artwork for Readers of All Ages, June 9 – July 14, 1863
by J. David Petruzzi and Steven Stanley

Product Details

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Savas Beatie (July 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 161121078X
• ISBN-13: 978-1611210781

The authors have an uncanny ability to hit the “sweet spot” with their Gettysburg books.  The experience level of the intended audience makes no difference, as they always seem to hit just the right note.  This handbook is no exception being both informative and fun with something for the casual battlefield visitor to the experience reader.

In full color with photographs, illustrations and excellent maps, the authors take us on an easy tour of the campaign and the battle.  While this is a “fly over”, the coverage is excellent and the text factual.  I especially enjoyed the listing of Medal of Honor winners and the controversies, myth and misconceptions.  The Federal and Confederate quotes are a mini guide to Gettysburg in the words of the participants.  The Gettysburg Today section will be invaluable for planning a first trip to the park providing books, internet sites and places to see.

This book is a great value as an introduction or a reminder.