Friends, though divided A Tale of the Civil War By: George Alfred Henty (1832-1902)
Friends, Though Divided: A Tale of the Civil War, written by George Alfred Henty, is an engaging historical novel that transports readers back to the tumultuous era of the American Civil War. As an ardent fan of Henty's storytelling, I eagerly delved into this gripping tale and was not disappointed. The book revolves around four friends—Frank, Harry, Gerald, and Bertie—who hail from different backgrounds but are united by their bond of friendship. Set against the backdrop of the war that tore the United States apart, Henty masterfully weaves a story of friendship, honor, and loyalty that kept me captivated from beginning to end. Right from the start, Henty's meticulous attention to historical detail is evident, as he paints a vivid picture of the era, complete with its societal divisions and the political turmoil that gripped the nation. Through his well-researched characters, the author provides readers with a balanced perspective of the conflict, presenting both the Union and Confederacy's viewpoints. The narrative unfolds as our four protagonists find themselves on opposite sides of the war, compelled by their deep-seated convictions and familial ties. Their diverging paths allow Henty to explore the harsh realities faced by soldiers on both sides and the personal sacrifices they endure for their cause. It was fascinating to observe how each character's journey evolves, encountering their own set of challenges that test their principles and values. Moreover, Henty's distinctive writing style effortlessly transports readers into the heart of the battles, where he vividly describes the chaos, turmoil, and brutality of war. The author's ability to make historical events come alive is truly commendable, immersing readers in the strategic maneuvers, bloody skirmishes, and the broader implications of the war itself. Another aspect that impressed me was the moral quandaries the characters face and the ethical choices they must make. Henty skillfully explores themes of honor, integrity, and camaraderie, challenging his readers to reflect upon their own beliefs and values. The internal conflicts and growth that the characters experience lend credibility to the story, making them relatable and allowing readers to empathize with their struggles. However, there were a few instances where the narrative felt overly didactic, with Henty sometimes interjecting his personal viewpoints on the war's causes and consequences. While this may be seen as a drawback by some readers, I appreciated the author's intentions of providing historical context and stimulating critical thinking. In summary, Friends, Though Divided: A Tale of the Civil War is an enthralling historical novel that not only educates but also entertains. With its richly drawn characters, well-researched backdrop, and thought-provoking themes, George Alfred Henty once again proves his expertise in crafting compelling historical fiction. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking an engrossing read, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression. First Page: FRIENDS THOUGH DIVIDED A TALE OF THE CIVIL WAR BY G.A. HENTY AUTHOR OF "IN TIMES OF PERIL," "THE YOUNG FRANCTIREURS," "THE YOUNG BUGLERS," ETC, ETC. PREFACE My dear lads: Although so long a time has elapsed since the great civil war in England, men are still almost as much divided as they were then as to the merits of the quarrel, almost as warm partisans of the one side or the other. Most of you will probably have formed an opinion as to the rights of the case, either from your own reading, or from hearing the views of your elders. For my part, I have endeavored to hold the scales equally, to relate historical facts with absolute accuracy, and to show how much of right and how much of wrong there was upon either side. Upon the one hand, the king by his instability, bad faith, and duplicity alienated his best friends, and drove the Commons to far greater lengths than they had at first dreamed of. Upon the other hand, the struggle, begun only to win constitutional rights, ended owing to the ambition, fanaticism, and determination to override all rights and all opinions save their own, of a numerically insignificant minority of the Commons, backed by the strength of the army in the establishment of the most complete despotism England has ever seen. It may no doubt be considered a failing on my part that one of my heroes has a very undue preponderance of adventure over the other... Continue reading book >>

Friends, though divided A Tale of the Civil War By: George Alfred Henty (1832-1902)

Friends, Though Divided: A Tale of the Civil War, written by George Alfred Henty, is an engaging historical novel that transports readers back to the tumultuous era of the American Civil War. As an ardent fan of Henty's storytelling, I eagerly delved into this gripping tale and was not disappointed.

The book revolves around four friends—Frank, Harry, Gerald, and Bertie—who hail from different backgrounds but are united by their bond of friendship. Set against the backdrop of the war that tore the United States apart, Henty masterfully weaves a story of friendship, honor, and loyalty that kept me captivated from beginning to end.

Right from the start, Henty's meticulous attention to historical detail is evident, as he paints a vivid picture of the era, complete with its societal divisions and the political turmoil that gripped the nation. Through his well-researched characters, the author provides readers with a balanced perspective of the conflict, presenting both the Union and Confederacy's viewpoints.

The narrative unfolds as our four protagonists find themselves on opposite sides of the war, compelled by their deep-seated convictions and familial ties. Their diverging paths allow Henty to explore the harsh realities faced by soldiers on both sides and the personal sacrifices they endure for their cause. It was fascinating to observe how each character's journey evolves, encountering their own set of challenges that test their principles and values.

Moreover, Henty's distinctive writing style effortlessly transports readers into the heart of the battles, where he vividly describes the chaos, turmoil, and brutality of war. The author's ability to make historical events come alive is truly commendable, immersing readers in the strategic maneuvers, bloody skirmishes, and the broader implications of the war itself.

Another aspect that impressed me was the moral quandaries the characters face and the ethical choices they must make. Henty skillfully explores themes of honor, integrity, and camaraderie, challenging his readers to reflect upon their own beliefs and values. The internal conflicts and growth that the characters experience lend credibility to the story, making them relatable and allowing readers to empathize with their struggles.

However, there were a few instances where the narrative felt overly didactic, with Henty sometimes interjecting his personal viewpoints on the war's causes and consequences. While this may be seen as a drawback by some readers, I appreciated the author's intentions of providing historical context and stimulating critical thinking.

In summary, Friends, Though Divided: A Tale of the Civil War is an enthralling historical novel that not only educates but also entertains. With its richly drawn characters, well-researched backdrop, and thought-provoking themes, George Alfred Henty once again proves his expertise in crafting compelling historical fiction. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking an engrossing read, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

FRIENDS THOUGH DIVIDED

A TALE OF THE CIVIL WAR

G.A. HENTY

AUTHOR OF "IN TIMES OF PERIL," "THE YOUNG FRANCTIREURS," "THE YOUNG BUGLERS," ETC, ETC.

PREFACE

My dear lads: Although so long a time has elapsed since the great civil war in England, men are still almost as much divided as they were then as to the merits of the quarrel, almost as warm partisans of the one side or the other. Most of you will probably have formed an opinion as to the rights of the case, either from your own reading, or from hearing the views of your elders.

For my part, I have endeavored to hold the scales equally, to relate historical facts with absolute accuracy, and to show how much of right and how much of wrong there was upon either side. Upon the one hand, the king by his instability, bad faith, and duplicity alienated his best friends, and drove the Commons to far greater lengths than they had at first dreamed of. Upon the other hand, the struggle, begun only to win constitutional rights, ended owing to the ambition, fanaticism, and determination to override all rights and all opinions save their own, of a numerically insignificant minority of the Commons, backed by the strength of the army in the establishment of the most complete despotism England has ever seen.

It may no doubt be considered a failing on my part that one of my heroes has a very undue preponderance of adventure over the other... Continue reading book >>

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