A Stillness at Appomattox

by Bruce Catton
A Stillness at Appomattox cover
Good Books rating 4.17
History, Political, Military, Adventure
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  • ID: 8834
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • Published: 1957-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Bruce Catton's A Stillness at Appomattox is a Pulitzer Prize-winning narrative that captures the essence of the Civil War's conclusion. The book provides a detailed and moving account of the events leading up to and including the surrender at Appomattox Court House, offering insights into the personal and strategic decisions that shaped the war's end. Catton's prose is both evocative and informative, making this a must-read for history enthusiasts and general readers alike. /n/n The author's deep understanding of the period and his ability to weave together military strategy, political maneuvering, and human drama create a rich tapestry of the war's final chapter. A Stillness at Appomattox is not just a historical account but a profound reflection on the cost of war and the fragile nature of peace.

Reviews
Cannonball Read · 2022-12-12
excellent 4.50

It's easily one of the best histories of the Civil War. The narrow focus and narrative style make it stand out.

This reviewer found the book to be excellent and one of the best histories of the Civil War they've ever read. The narrow focus on the final months of the war and the narrative style make it particularly compelling. The reviewer appreciates how Catton weaves together the successes and failures of both armies, providing a clear and engaging account of the conflict. The book's ability to convey the human cost and the sorrow of the war is also highlighted as a significant strength.

Quick quotes

    It is excellent.

    It's easily one of the best histories of the Civil War I've ever read

    The narrative style makes it stand out.

Edge Induced Cohesion · 2019-05-31
harrowing 4.00

The author conveys a sense of the sorrow that so much loss was required to bring the nation back together again.

This reviewer highlights the book's ability to convey the profound sorrow and loss that marked the end of the Civil War. The reviewer appreciates how Catton captures the emotional toll of the conflict and the long process of reuniting the nation. The book is praised for its poignant and reflective tone, which adds depth to the historical account. The reviewer also notes the significance of the book's focus on the human cost of war, making it a moving and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    The author conveys a sense of the sorrow that so much loss was required to bring the nation back together again

    It took so long for the nation to heal

    A poignant and reflective tone

The Odd Past · 2018-03-07
great 4.00

Catton weaves the successes and failures of both armies through the dying days of the war with stunning clarity.

The reviewer praises Catton's ability to convey the complexities of the Civil War with stunning clarity and an amazing narrative. The book is noted for its detailed account of both the successes and failures of the armies involved, providing a comprehensive understanding of the conflict. The reviewer appreciates how Catton captures the human cost and the sorrow of the war, making it a poignant and insightful read.

Quick quotes

    Told with stunning clarity and amazing narrative

    Catton weaves the successes and failures of both armies through the dying days of the war

    A comprehensive understanding of the conflict

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