Hidden amongst the photographs, uniforms, revolvers, and war medals of the Civil War are the remarkable stories of some of the most unlikely heroes—women.
North, South, black, white, Native American, immigrant—the women in these micro-drama biographies are wives, mothers, sisters, and friends whose purposes ranged from supporting husbands and sons during wartime to counseling President Lincoln on strategy, from tending to the wounded on the battlefield to spiriting away slaves through the Underground Railroad, from donning a uniform and fighting unrecognized alongside the men to working as spies for either side.
This book brings to light the incredible stories of women from the Civil War that remain relevant to our nation today. Each woman’s experience helps us see a truer, fuller, richer version of what really happened in this country during this time period.
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“Monson hails from a literary background, and her approach to this enormously overlooked history possesses a dramatic narrative appeal that reflects her novelist expertise…The diversity of her subjects is also outstanding…The background provided for each biographical category is also illuminating…History-loving book clubs will find much to discuss here…Women of the Blue and Gray is full of surprises.”
— Booklist
“The biographies zing with personality and page-turning prose…This entertaining and accessible book is a suitable introduction for readers beginning their foray into Civil War history.”
— Publishers Weekly“The women themselves speak though quotes from their writings, speeches and letters. They are portrayed in terrifically difficult situations, bringing depth and life to the historical record…A powerful book.”
— Foreword Reviews“A unique and exceptional contribution to the growing body of American Civil War literature…Very highly recommended for both community and academic library collections.”
— Midwest Book ReviewsBe the first to write a review about this audiobook!
Marianne Monson is a writer and professor of English with a strong interest in the relationship between literature and history. After earning a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Brigham Young University, she continued her studies at Vermont College of Fine Arts, earning an MFA in creative writing. Since then, she has worked as an editor and art director of children’s books, authored several books for children and adults, and continues editing and writing for a variety of audiences. She teaches creative writing at Portland Community College and regularly speaks at writing conferences.
Caroline Shaffer is an AudioFile Earphones Award–winning narrator. A former company member at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival for nineteen years, she received an MFA from the American Conservatory Theater.