Dugard, Martin. The training ground; Grant, Lee, Sherman, and Davis in the Mexican War, 1846-1848.

DUGARD, Martin. The training ground; Grant, Lee, Sherman, and Davis in the Mexican War, 1846-1848. Read by Robertson Dean. 10 cds. 12 hrs. Blackstone Audio. 2008. 978-1-4332-1457-8. $90.00. Vinyl; content, author, reader notes. SA

These military professionals first gained experience in the Mexican War (1846-1848) and then went on to play major roles in the Civil War less than two decades later; all were ambitious men seeing advancement and adventure. Dugard looks at these military leaders when they were in their 20s, recent graduates of West Point, and also at some older ones who had served with Andrew Jackson in the Seminole Wars. The author begins in the pre-Mexican War era and provides background information on each character. Refreshingly, he includes the roles played by wives and sweethearts. Dugard then moves into the war and covers it from early skirmishes to the final battle for Mexico City. The author describes the carnage in a grim, realistic manner and discusses how the future generals distinguished themselves. He includes quotes from letters and other sources. Some are treated in more detail than others; listeners may wonder why some are left out. Dean's narration is serious and generally even-toned, and he brings the text to life. Sometimes he is narrating; sometimes describing; sometimes reporting. He alters his voice just enough to change the mood. Prof. John E. Boyd, Jenkintown, PA