Gettysburg: The Graphic History of America's Most Famous Battle and the Turning Point of The Civil War (Zenith Graphic Histories) Paperback – April 15, 2013

Even though most Americans are familiar with the historical significance of the battle of Gettysburg, many probably have not read anything about it since their first American history course. This excellent Graphic Adaptation by Wayne Vansant, makes this most famous civil war battle really come alive. It also explains many of the vital details about this historic battle, which many historians think was the turning point in the civil war.This book is organized into five areas. The prologue covers the long chance and the march north by Lee and his army. The book moves to the first day, July 1, 1863 when the first shot occurred and the gathering storm was about to begin. On the second day, July 2, 1863 the text deals with the importance of Round Top and Devil's den, as well as the wheat field and the peach orchard events. The third and final day, July 3rd, 1863 deals with Pickett's charge and what a disaster it turned out for Lee's Army. The final section explains the aftermath of the battle with the defeat of the south and victory by the north. This section also tells how President Lincoln wanted General Mead to go after Lee's army who were retreating, but Mead refused. Many historians think this was a mistake by General Mead because it may have ended the civil war at that time.In conclusion, this is a book every American should read to better understand this important American historical battle.Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Never Trust a Politician).

The 150th anniversary of the battle of Gettysburg will be coming up shortly, and for those interested in it but unwilling to plow through tedious history books, this graphic presentation of the battle is ideal. The author (and artist) has given the reader an excellent overview of the battle, from the beginning of the idea of the invasion of the North by General Lee, to Lincoln's address several months after the battle. It appears to cover all of the major movements and actions of that three day bloodbath in often grisly pictorial detail. I've visited Gettysburg many times, as it is only 90 minutes from where I live, and this book is quite a helpful guide. Younger readers may be put off by the mention of various army parts, or the command structures of each army. Also, the position maps, which I find very helpful, might just turn them off to the whole idea. Older children and adults should have no trouble following the action, and taking this book to the scene might be a great help to visitors. There were a few typos, and some fractured grammar, but they were minor when compared with the achievement of this work. I can highly recommend it!

This book was a great presentation of the Battle of Gettysburg. I remember the American Heritage book on the Civil War from the 1970's. I really loved their pictures and maps. This in its own way is the equal and maybe the better of depicting the battle.There were many things I liked about the book; Good maps, good graphics depicting the Corps with its General and their subordinate Officers, and the little historic anecdotes of what the soldiers said or did (many I hadn't heard before). As the battle commenced the art really made the point of how horrific the it really was and it was done without the gore that would turn many off. I found I learned a few things as I read it, got a better understanding of what went on, and really enjoyed it. Its a great resource for anyone interested in the battle. I would also recommend it for anyone going to Gettysburg as a good way to prepare yourself for your visit.

I have been to Gettysburg many times, and have read some very good books and articles - and watched just as excellent documentaries - but this is the first time I had not just the most comprehensive graphic novel, but also have acquired a better understanding of the visual, visceral, events both leading up to the battle and the many less-discussed skirmishes that are overlooked by the many historians and commentaries used when detailing the three days that turned the tide of the war! One of the points mentioned in all the incarnations of the tale of Lee's "High Water Mark," is the way that cannon shot at point-blank range straight into the masses of Confederate soldiers in Pickett's charge is the 'liquefaction' of the bodies; I don't think anyone can accurately describe what that is like, but, then again, I'm not too sure I'd want to, anyway.Well done!

Grandson used for school

Wayne Vansant did a book like this in the 90's. It focused mainly on the 26th North Carolina. This was by far much broader in scope and I feel better. A must read for any student of history.

What an excellent production. Written and Illustrated by (the Man) Wayne Vansant and Zenith Press presentationthat proves comics are more than comics these days. "The Graphic History" shows they have become a visualenlightened companionship to the more in depth books on the subject that have sold by the millions.These Graphic Novels arrive in my letter box as if they were straight out of the printing press and for my personal pleasure. Thank you Pete R.

This was a good overview of the battle at Gettysburg, with pictures to help. It is a good account of what went on and does not take a long time to read.