In the Presence of Mine Enemies: War in the Heart of America, 1859-1863 (The Valley of the Shadow Project) [signed] [first edition]

Through the stories of individuals and families involved in the Civil War, including civilians and soldiers, free blacks and whites, and women and men, Ayers (history, University of Virginia) shows that the popular conception of the war as an inevitable clash resulting in national unification and the destruction of slavery does not do justice to the reality of those who lived during the period. Ayers recovers the experiences of people who lived the Civil War, examining the emotions and beliefs on which they acted. B&w historical illustrations are included. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)