The Civil War of 1812

Taylor examines the War of 1812, especially in the North, in great detail as a struggle not just between nations but among peoples, political parties, and ideas of government. Andrew Garman's soft voice is pleasant and easy to listen to, and his narration gives an impression of care and intelligence. His pace is deliberate, as if he were thinking the book out as he tells it, but not too slow for the level of depth and detail. Eventually, however, it seems that he imposes repeated patterns of tone, expression, and pacing on the reading rather than simply delivering the text; at times, a certain monotony ensues. But overall, this clear, well-paced presentation matches the careful analysis of the history. W.M. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine