Slade and Alexander, both journalists, uncovered a stash of papers in the archives at Gettysburg in 1977, and have used them to produce a compelling collection of personal stories from one of the most famous battles ever fought on American soil. Lavishly illustrated with period photographs and drawings, some of which have never before been published, this book recreates the six-month period from June 1863 through Lincoln's famous address at the dedication of the national cemetery in November in the words of the citizens of Gettysburg, many of whom were women and children. This is a new perspective on an otherwise thoroughly examined topic. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)