General readers will find Masur's book interesting, but its greatest value may be in its use as an undergraduate textbook, whose 11 well-written chapters, prologue, epilogue, and 36 well-chosen images (all well worth unpacking) make it easily accessible.
Louis P. Masur is Distinguished Professor of American Studies and History at Rutgers University. He is the author of many books, including The Civil War: A Concise History, The Soiling of Old Glory, and Lincoln's Last Speech. His essays and reviews have appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, and Slate and he lectures around the country for One Day University.