I read this book because I heard Joseph Plum Martin quoted on nearly every documentary about the Revolutionary War. I wanted to know what else was in his book. And what a fantastic book it was.
This was one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read. Sgt. Martin was clearly an intelligent man, but a common man. I say this because it was written in the common man's english but the author was clearly intelligent. It was written by an old Sgt Martin who was looking back at his life as a soldier and evaluating his own conduct. That, too was clear.
Historians agree that this is probably an accurate account because he always placed himself at the right place based on the movements of his unit. But more importantly, Sgt. Martin's narrative is believable. He never makes himself out to be a hero. His accounts of combat almost never focus on his actions. (Which I feel could have lead to making himself into a hero) Instead it was...I saw this, I felt that or WE did this. When he did write about his own actions, it was never to puff himself up. At one point, he wrote that he wished that he did not kill a man that he took deliberate aim at, although he confessed he meant to at the time. In addition, he documents far more occasions upon which he acted foolishly than bravely. He does not whine about starving, but instead reports it. But, most interestingly, he includes short, seemingly inconsequential conversations and events. The addition of these events, far from being tedious provide a window into 1770 & 1780s America.
Another reviewer said, in the title of their review that this should be required reading for all 8th grade students. I agree. I think it could well be comprehended by them and it would help instill a sense of American pride that is lacking in our country.
This book affected me in a way that no other has. I have never walked away from a book and wanted so badly to meet the author. Sgt. Martin must have been an incredibly interesting person. The things he saw and did, I'm sure could have filled 10 volumes. But more than that, the gratitude I feel for this, and every other such man was sharpened by this book. My desire to express my thanks to him and my admiration for such a fine account this period filled me to the point of bursting.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is short (166 pages), moves well, reads easily, entertains, inspires and educates.
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