58 pages • 1 hour read
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337
Novel • Fiction
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania • 1860s
1974
Adult
14-18 years
610L
The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara tells the story of the three-day Battle of Gettysburg from July 1 to July 3, 1863, through the perspectives of key Union and Confederate commanders like Robert E. Lee, James Longstreet, and Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. The narrative focuses on strategic decisions, intense battles, and personal experiences during one of the most critical engagements of the American Civil War. The book describes graphic scenes of violence and the realities of war.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Dark
Challenging
Emotional
96,896 ratings
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Michael Shaara's The Killer Angels is widely praised for its historical accuracy and compelling portrayal of the Battle of Gettysburg. Reviewers commend its vivid character development and gripping narrative, although some note that its detailed military strategy may not appeal to all readers. Overall, it's highly recommended for history buffs and Civil War enthusiasts.
Fans of The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara typically enjoy deeply researched historical fiction, nuanced war narratives, and complex character studies. Readers who appreciated All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque or Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier may find this Civil War epic particularly engaging.
96,896 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
Colonel of the 20th Maine, a former professor known for his linguistic abilities and thoughtful leadership. He plays a significant role in the Union defense at Gettysburg.
James Longstreet
Lee's second-in-command and a lieutenant general, recognized for his innovations in defensive warfare and loyalty to Lee despite strategic disagreements.
Stonewall Jackson
A pivotal Confederate commander whose death before the Battle of Gettysburg leaves a profound impact on Lee and the remaining Confederate leaders.
John Buford
A Union cavalry major general, noted for his strategic skill in selecting battlefield positions and his pivotal role in the early actions at Gettysburg.
Arthur Lyon Fremantle
An English observer attached to the Confederate Army, offering an outsider's perspective on Confederate strategies and leaders.
George Pickett
A Confederate major general known for his flamboyance and perceived lack of significant battlefield assignments until the charge at Gettysburg.
Richard Ewell
A Confederate lieutenant general promoted after Jackson's death, struggling with confidence issues in his new command role approaching Gettysburg.
Ambrose Powell Hill
A recently promoted Confederate lieutenant general, facing health challenges; known for his distinctive battle attire and tension with other leaders.
Jubal Early
A Confederate major general recognized for his grim demeanor and legal background, commanding a division under Ewell.
Lewis Armistead
A Confederate brigadier general under Pickett, notable for his friendship with Union General Hancock and internal conflicts regarding the war.
Richard Brooke Garnett
Another brigadier general under Pickett, struggling with questions about his honor after a controversial retreat and subsequent court martial.
Winfield Scott Hancock
A Union major general, distinguished for his gallant leadership and close prewar friendship with Confederate General Armistead.
J. E. B. Stuart
A Confederate cavalry lieutenant general known for his charm and effectiveness, but whose absence during the Gettysburg campaign raises significant challenges for Lee.
John Reynolds
A respected Union major general who declines command of the Army but plays a key role in the Union's initial actions at Gettysburg.
George Gordon Meade
The Union commanding general at Gettysburg, known for his recent promotion and the pressures of leading a major battle shortly after taking command.
Walter Taylor
Lee’s chief aide, a lieutenant colonel known for his diligent support and administrative contributions to Confederate command operations.
Traveler
General Lee's steadfast and beloved horse, accompanying Lee through many battles and earning a notable place in Confederate lore.
337
Novel • Fiction
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania • 1860s
1974
Adult
14-18 years
610L
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