Wainer By: Michael Shaara
Wainer by Michael Shaara is a gripping tale that transports readers to a tumultuous period in American history. Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, this novel masterfully captures the essence of the era while delivering a tale of love, loss, and redemption. The story follows the life of the titular character, Wainer, a young soldier who finds himself torn between his allegiance to the Confederate cause and the moral dilemmas of war. Shaara's vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the battlefields and the soldiers' lives to life, immersing the reader in a world fraught with heartache and turmoil. One of the book's standout elements is the author's ability to create complex and multi-dimensional characters that elicit both sympathy and disdain. Wainer's internal struggles and the conflicting loyalties he faces add depth to his character, making him relatable and human. The supporting cast is equally compelling, with each character having their own unique motivations and aspirations that resonate throughout the story. Shaara's prose is captivating, effortlessly combining historical accuracy with evocative storytelling. His meticulous research shines through, with the book providing a comprehensive account of the Civil War's impact on both the soldiers and the civilian population. From the brutal reality of the battlefield to the emotional toll it takes on those left behind, readers are given a comprehensive understanding of the conflict's devastating consequences. The pacing of the story is well-crafted, drawing the reader deeper into Wainer's world with each page. Whether it's the intensity of the battle scenes or the tender moments of camaraderie among soldiers, Shaara's ability to balance action and introspection keeps the story moving forward, never allowing it to stagnate. What truly sets Wainer apart is its exploration of the moral gray areas that arise during times of war. Shaara delves into the complexities of loyalty, sacrifice, and individual conscience, challenging readers to question their own beliefs and values. The book doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of war, forcing readers to confront the profound personal costs that come with such conflicts. Overall, Wainer is a beautifully crafted historical novel that transports readers to a crucial chapter in American history. Michael Shaara's skillful writing and engrossing storytelling make it a must-read for anyone with an interest in the Civil War or the intricacies of human nature. Powerful and thought-provoking, this book will stay with readers long after the final page. First Page: Wainer By MICHAEL SHAARA Illustrated by ASHMAN [Transcriber Note: This etext was produced from Galaxy Science Fiction April 1954. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.] [Sidenote: Certainly, life has a meaning though sometimes it takes a lifetime to learn what it is. ] The man in the purple robe was too old to walk or stand. He was wheeled upon a purple bench into the center of a marvelous room, where unhuman beings whom we shall call "They" had gathered and waited. Because he was such an old man, he commanded a great sum of respect, but he was nervous before Them and spoke with apology, and sometimes with irritation, because he could not understand what They were thinking and it worried him. Yet there was no one left like this old man. There was no one anywhere who was as old but that does not matter. Old men are important not for what they have learned, but for whom they have known, and this old man had known Wainer. Therefore he spoke and told Them what he knew, and more that he did not know he was telling. And They, who were not men, sat in silence and the deepest affection, and listened.... William Wainer died and was forgotten (said the old man) much more than a thousand years ago... Continue reading book >>

Wainer By: Michael Shaara

Wainer by Michael Shaara is a gripping tale that transports readers to a tumultuous period in American history. Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, this novel masterfully captures the essence of the era while delivering a tale of love, loss, and redemption.

The story follows the life of the titular character, Wainer, a young soldier who finds himself torn between his allegiance to the Confederate cause and the moral dilemmas of war. Shaara's vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the battlefields and the soldiers' lives to life, immersing the reader in a world fraught with heartache and turmoil.

One of the book's standout elements is the author's ability to create complex and multi-dimensional characters that elicit both sympathy and disdain. Wainer's internal struggles and the conflicting loyalties he faces add depth to his character, making him relatable and human. The supporting cast is equally compelling, with each character having their own unique motivations and aspirations that resonate throughout the story.

Shaara's prose is captivating, effortlessly combining historical accuracy with evocative storytelling. His meticulous research shines through, with the book providing a comprehensive account of the Civil War's impact on both the soldiers and the civilian population. From the brutal reality of the battlefield to the emotional toll it takes on those left behind, readers are given a comprehensive understanding of the conflict's devastating consequences.

The pacing of the story is well-crafted, drawing the reader deeper into Wainer's world with each page. Whether it's the intensity of the battle scenes or the tender moments of camaraderie among soldiers, Shaara's ability to balance action and introspection keeps the story moving forward, never allowing it to stagnate.

What truly sets Wainer apart is its exploration of the moral gray areas that arise during times of war. Shaara delves into the complexities of loyalty, sacrifice, and individual conscience, challenging readers to question their own beliefs and values. The book doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of war, forcing readers to confront the profound personal costs that come with such conflicts.

Overall, Wainer is a beautifully crafted historical novel that transports readers to a crucial chapter in American history. Michael Shaara's skillful writing and engrossing storytelling make it a must-read for anyone with an interest in the Civil War or the intricacies of human nature. Powerful and thought-provoking, this book will stay with readers long after the final page.

First Page:

Wainer

By MICHAEL SHAARA

Illustrated by ASHMAN

[Transcriber Note: This etext was produced from Galaxy Science Fiction April 1954. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.]

[Sidenote: Certainly, life has a meaning though sometimes it takes a lifetime to learn what it is. ]

The man in the purple robe was too old to walk or stand. He was wheeled upon a purple bench into the center of a marvelous room, where unhuman beings whom we shall call "They" had gathered and waited. Because he was such an old man, he commanded a great sum of respect, but he was nervous before Them and spoke with apology, and sometimes with irritation, because he could not understand what They were thinking and it worried him.

Yet there was no one left like this old man. There was no one anywhere who was as old but that does not matter. Old men are important not for what they have learned, but for whom they have known, and this old man had known Wainer.

Therefore he spoke and told Them what he knew, and more that he did not know he was telling. And They, who were not men, sat in silence and the deepest affection, and listened....

William Wainer died and was forgotten (said the old man) much more than a thousand years ago... Continue reading book >>

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