The General and Julia by Jon Clinch - 4+ Stars (BWF Extra)

[Joy D]

The General and Julia by Jon Clinch - 4* - My Review

Much has been written about the life of Ulysses Grant, including his own memoirs, and I have read several non-fiction accounts. This book is historical fiction that provides a more personal perspective. It covers the years 1843 to the end of his life in 1885. Grant reflects back on particular time periods. Each chapter contains both Grant’s reflections on a memorable experience and the time he spent writing his memoirs in a cabin in New York. We learn much about his family, financial difficulties, and friendship with Mark Twain.

The writing is cinematic. I could picture these scenes as they might appear on screen. I particularly enjoyed one of the opening vignettes that portrays his first with meeting his (then future) wife, Julia. Another favorite is the surrender of Robert E. Lee at Appomattox. It covers the American Civil War years but is not solely about the war. Those who enjoy accurately depicted historical fiction will surely enjoy it. This is the first book I have read by Jon Clinch, and I look forward to investigating what else he has written.

PBT Comment: This is a BWF January Extra that matches the letter but not the tag.

[Joanne]

I knew you would like this Joy! And you are right-this would make a great movie!

The surrender at Appomattox was also one my favorite memories Grant shared and I also loved the time spent with Twain. I could picture Grant's office, his dawdling with the memoirs and Twain's frenzied actions trying to get Grant motivated. I am not a big movie person, but this one I would make an effort to watch.

[Joy D]

I looked for a copy after reading your review! I think this would have been 5 stars for me if I hadn't read the non-fictions, so I already knew about most of the events covered.