Review of “I Am a Soldier, First and Always”: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock

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Lisa Thomason
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Review of “I Am a Soldier, First and Always”: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock

Post by Lisa Thomason »

[Following is a volunteer review of "“I Am a Soldier, First and Always”: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock" by James Harold Kelly.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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The novel depicting the career of Winfield Scott Hancock titled I Am Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock, is a spectacular read. At first, I wasn't too sure how interesting this story would be; but before too long, I was transported back into the Civil War era. The descriptive words that James Harold Kelly used allowed me to visualize the war scenes. There were many weapons that were mentioned. Some of the weapons that were mentioned I knew, but others I had to look up. This book has expanded my knowledge. All the trials and losses that the men experienced seemed to be eloquently explained. General Hancock was a brave man, as evidenced by his presence with his men. He fought alongside of them every step of the way. When he was seriously injured, he refused to be carried by wagon, but insisted that he ride his horse. When one of his men stated that a commander ought not fight, Hancock's reply was that their lives mattered as much as his life. He was highly respected by his men and many others in the country. Eventually, he was nominated by the Democratic Party to run against President Grant for presidency.

This novel was exciting as the author depicted the fighting scenes, as well as the comaraderie among the soldiers. There were conversations shared that helped the reader to understand the feelings of those involved in the fight. I liked the fact that the author, James Harold Kelly, inserted maps of the area and the army's position and course. The descriptions of the war and the fatigue and wounds of the soldiers, I found to be very believable.

My dislikes about I Am a Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock, are the abundant use of profanity and the vivid descriptions of the wounds. I know that profanity is part of conversations in war time. The descriptive nature of the wounds was very accurate and believable. That being said, those are my personal tastes.

Although I was not sure if I would like this particular book, I found the story to be fascinating. I rate I Am Soldier, First and Always: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock a five out of five stars. This book had only one error, proving it was well-edited. I felt that the storyline was very well-described. The events and scenery and characters were adequately portrayed.

I am recommending this book for readers of all walks of life. I think the young reader can glean historical informaton regarding the Civil War, and the mature reader will enjoy the comaraderie of the soldiers. All will be able to appreciate the life of a soldier and all that our country went thru during this time.

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“I Am a Soldier, First and Always”: The Distinguished Career of Winfield Scott Hancock
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