Written by an accomplished author and college professor, this unique, historically-accurate novel is based on the experiences of an actual soldier in the Civil War. Dr. Max Terman takes us back in time to the Shenandoah Valley, Second Bull Run, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Belle Island prison, and Andersonville. The exceptional aspect of this book is that Dr. Terman assumes the identity of his ancestor in all of his training, battles, and prison misery. You will walk with Private Hiram Terman, a conflicted yet obedient soldier, his two friends--the worldly, shrewd yet emotional Seth and the pious, religious, unwavering Isaiah as they experience arguments and disagreements, grueling marches, arduous camp-life, and the numbing terror of battles. You will feel the sting of capture, merciless marches and packed prison trains, the death of comrades, the grinding misery of the prison camps, and then, finally, the exhilaration of release. You will also encounter struggling generals, desperate civilians, brutal fellow prisoners, and enemy soldiers, some cruel and heartless, others compassionate. Based on actual eyewitness accounts and real events, this is a story you'll never forget, a fitting tribute to the upcoming 150 year anniversary of the American Civil War. This digital version includes online links for further research and a discussion guide.