William Tecumseh Sherman

In the Service of My Country: A Life

By: James Lee McDonough

Narrated by: David Drummond

General Sherman's 1864 burning of Atlanta solidified his legacy as a ruthless leader. Yet Sherman proved far more complex than his legendary military tactics reveal. James Lee McDonough offers fresh insight into a man tormented by the fear that history would pass him by, who was plagued by personal debts, and who lived much of his life separated from his family.

As a soldier, Sherman evolved from a spirited student at West Point into a general who steered the Civil War's most decisive campaigns, rendered here in graphic detail. Lamenting casualties, Sherman sought the war's swift end by devastating Southern resources in the Carolinas and on his famous March to the Sea. This meticulously researched biography explores Sherman's warm friendship with Ulysses S. Grant, his strained relationship with his wife, Ellen, and his unassuageable grief over the death of his young son, Willy. The result is a remarkable, comprehensive life of an American icon whose legacy resonates to this day.

©2016 James Lee McDonough (P)2016 Tantor

Critic reviews

"McDonough has produced an exhaustive biography told with considerable narrative skill." ( Publishers Weekly)

Excellent.

interesting and pertinent info on the General, well presented. I learned a great deal, and I've read about the war extensively.

William Tecumseh Sherman

A gripping biography with an excellent performance. Easily my favorite book I've listened to on audible.

Less than optimal narration

Fascinating subject, well researched. But the narrator sounds almost artificial, like someone speaking the words but not understanding their content.

Loved it!

In light of all of the recent destruction of and uproar over all things confederate, I am taking it upon myself to learn more about the critical time that was the American Civil War and those figures that were prominent on both sides. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and learning more about “Uncle Willy.”

Great American in context

It is easy to either ignore the faults of our American "heroes," or over-emphasize them until they become a sort of villain. The antidote I think is seeking to grasp their real contexts. This book does an admirable job in that regard. Sherman's greatness and his flaws are all on display here in a detailed and entertaining accounting of his life. I enjoyed this book and hope you will, too.