Reviewed by:Amanda
Grace Key words: Nonfiction, History,
Biography
Recommended Reading Level:
Grades 11, 12, Adult
Theme: It tells the life
story of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, college professor, Civil War hero,
Bowdoin college president, and governor of Maine.
Summary: Trulock shows how
extraordinary influences and events shaped Chamberlain into one of the
most remarkable men in history. This book contains thrilling stories about
Chamberlain that few people know about, and how God preserved him through
perilous times.
Strengths: Trulock is a
masterful author, weaving her elaborate writing style with Chamberlain's
own writings. I have never found history more readable. The book flows
like a novel, containing compelling stories (which sometimes sound like
fiction) as well as poetic inspiring writing. Trulock draws in the reader
to experience a full range of emotion, from laughing out loud to weeping.
Weaknesses: It may be too
wordy for some.
Other Notes: Trulock died
before the book was published, but her husband continues her love of Civil
War lore. Don't be discouraged by such a long book; the appendix, notes
and index section is extensive and begins on page 383. After reading this
book, I found other books on Chamberlain trivial.
Trulock,
Alice Rains. In the Hands of Providence: Joshua L. Chamberlain and the
Civil War. University of North Carolina Press, 1992.