The War Outside My Window: The Civil War Diary of LeRoy Wiley Gresham, 1860-1865, edited by Janet Elizabeth Croon, is a compelling and thought-provoking memoir of a young boy who lived through the American Civil War. The diary entries of LeRoy Wiley Gresham, a privileged and educated white boy from Macon, Georgia, provide a unique perspective on the conflict and its impact on everyday life in the South.

Croon’s editing of Gresham’s diary is meticulous, with her notes and explanations providing historical context and detail, while not overshadowing the diary itself. The diary entries are presented in chronological order, making it easy for the reader to follow Gresham’s life and experiences throughout the war.

The book is divided into five sections, each of which represents a significant period in Gresham’s life. The first section covers the years leading up to the outbreak of the war, during which Gresham discusses his family life, education, and interests. The second section covers the early years of the war, during which Gresham’s diary entries become more political and reflect the impact of the war on his family and community. The third section covers Gresham’s experiences as a patient at home, as he suffers from a debilitating spinal condition. These entries provide a unique perspective on the war, as they describe the impact of the conflict on those who were unable to fight. The fourth section covers Gresham’s travels throughout the South as he seeks treatment for his condition. These entries provide insight into the devastation wrought by the war, as well as the resilience of the people who lived through it. The final section covers the last months of Gresham’s life, during which his health deteriorates and he ultimately succumbs to his condition. These entries provide a poignant and emotional end to the diary, as Gresham reflects on his life and the impact of the war.

One of the most striking aspects of Gresham’s diary is his attitude toward the war. As a young boy, he was initially excited by the prospect of war, but as the conflict dragged on and the reality of its impact became clear, he became increasingly disillusioned. His diary entries are often critical of the Confederate government and the conduct of the war, and he is scathing in his criticism of the slave system that underpinned Southern society.

Gresham’s diary also provides a unique perspective on the role of women during the war. As a young boy, he was largely sheltered from the realities of war, but as his health deteriorated and he became more dependent on the women around him, he began to appreciate their strength and resilience. His diary entries often express admiration for the women who cared for him and the sacrifices they made during the conflict.

Despite the tragic circumstances of Gresham’s life, his diary is often surprisingly upbeat and optimistic. He remains curious and interested in the world around him, even as his health deteriorates and the war rages on. His diary entries are often full of vivid descriptions of the natural world, demonstrating his love of nature and the environment.

The War Outside My Window is an important and valuable addition to the literature on the American Civil War. Croon’s editing of Gresham’s diary provides a fascinating insight into the impact of the conflict on everyday life in the South, and the attitudes and experiences of a young boy who lived through it. The book is also a valuable reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit, even in the face of great adversity.

Overall, The War Outside My Window is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in the American Civil War, or the impact of war on everyday life. The diary entries of LeRoy Wiley Gresham are both moving and enlightening, providing a unique perspective on the conflict that is often missing from more traditional accounts. By bringing Gresham’s story to life, Croon has created a compelling and deeply moving memoir that will stay with readers long after they finish reading. The War Outside My Window is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war, and the importance of understanding the impact of conflict on ordinary people.