The theme of the search for freedom is also prevalent. This can be seen in stories of slaves trying to escape or in the broader sense of different groups striving for a kind of freedom, whether it's political, social or economic freedom that was in a way related to the upheaval of the Civil War.
'Wade in the Water' by Tracy K. Smith is also a notable recent work. It delves into the African - American experience during and after the Civil War, using poetry to explore the history, trauma, and the journey towards equality.
One recent civil war novel is 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead. It presents a unique take on the Underground Railroad as an actual railroad system underground during the era of slavery which was a major factor leading to the Civil War.
'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah is set during World War II, not the Civil War. So, for the Civil War, 'The Kitchen House' by Kathleen Grissom is quite acclaimed. It gives a vivid picture of plantation life during the antebellum and Civil War periods, with complex characters and a gripping story of race, class, and family.
Another good one is 'March' by Geraldine Brooks. It's based on the life of Mr. March from 'Little Women' and his experiences during the Civil War. The novel delves deep into the war, the moral and ethical issues faced, and the impact on families and society at large. March's journey shows the harsh realities of war, from the battlefields to the hospitals and the relationships between soldiers and civilians.
They also show historical context by portraying the social and cultural aspects. Novels can depict the different classes, races, and genders during the civil war. 'March' shows how women were involved in the war effort in different ways, from running households alone to being nurses. The interactions between different races, like the freed slaves and the white abolitionists, are also explored, giving a rich picture of the historical context.
I think 'The Killer Angels' by Michael Shaara is very influential. It provides a detailed and in - depth look at the Battle of Gettysburg from multiple perspectives, which helps readers understand the military strategies and the human side of the soldiers involved. It's highly regarded for its historical accuracy.
The most famous is probably 'Gone with the Wind'. It has been extremely popular for decades and has been made into a classic movie. It shows the destruction of the South during the Civil War through the eyes of Scarlett O'Hara.
In recent years, 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah has been extremely popular. It tells the story of two sisters in France during World War II, highlighting their different experiences in the war - one as a resistance fighter and the other trying to survive in occupied France. 'Code Name Verity' by Elizabeth Wein is also well - liked. It's a story of female friendship and espionage during the war.
Among the Goodreads Civil War novels, 'The Killer Angels' is highly regarded for its historical accuracy. It was meticulously researched, and the details of the battle, the strategies, and the characters are based on real - life events and people. Another one is 'March' which is also quite accurate as it was written based on the letters of Louisa May Alcott's father who served as a chaplain in the war.