March

If you are familiar with Louisa May Alcott’s story “Little Women” then you know all about Beth, Jo, Amy and Meg.  In Geraldine Brooks novel March we meet their absent father and learn much about his pre-Little Women life as well as what went on while he was away from his family, serving in the army during the Civil War.  If you are at all familiar with Geraldine Brooks writing then you know she is meticulous in her research.  She brings to life the Civil War from a point of view rarely seen.  This is a must read.  Coincidentally, Confederates in the Attic (see previous entry), was written by Geraldine Brooks husband.  While he was busy researching this non-fiction story she rebelled against all things Civil War.  It must have rubbed off on her and if you read the afterward in March you will get quite the chuckle.  SG