Collection Book Reviews

Joan's book reviews are denoted with a JV at the end of the review. Vera's are denoted with a VVM.

Title & Author	Review
The Strange Story of Dr. James Barry Army Surgeon, Inspector General of Hospitals, discovered on death to be a woman by Isobel Rae >	TDr. James Barry, born Miss Margaret Ann Bulkeley, contrived a successful masquerade as a man. He completed studies in Edinburgh and London, passed the surgeon exam, and then was commissioned a Hospital Assistant with the British Army on July 6, 1813. All of this was impossible for a female at that time. Since Barry rose to high rank with many achievements including one of the first successful caesarian deliveries where both mother and child survived while keeping his true gender a secret Ms. Rae declared him "a fascinating personality." Using Army records as well as previously unavailable "Barry Papers" in the British War Office, the author traces Barry's early years and his various stations, promotions, commendations. Giving his "warts" (a terrible temper) and virtues with an accurate picture of the world he lived in, Ms. Rae provides an intriguing picture of the times and Barry's audacious and at times outrageous masquerade as well as his dedication "to the amelioration of human suffering." JV
Bussaco 1810 Wellington Defeats Napoleon's Marshalls Praeger Illustrated Military History Series by Rene Chatrand	The Praeger series books are all concise presentations. This one begins with a general outline of the geopolitical situation of the countries involved. It goes on to describe the British, Portuguese, and French participants; presents the Battle of the River Coa and then describes the Battle of Bussaco and its aftermath. Excellent for getting a general overview. JV
Bussaco by Lt. Col. G. L. Chambers	Chambers writes in an easily readable style with a lot of detail. He starts with what came before the battle, gives the British and French positions; outlines the composition of the opposing forces including the Portuguese. After a discussion of battle tactics he goes into great detail of the battle, outlining the artillery and then giving the aftermath. Sprinkled throughout are photos of various positions today with notes which makes the account especially interesting. JV
The Peninsular War: A Battlefield Guide by Andrew Rawson	Rawson offers a concise readable guide the the major points of the Peninsular War battlefields and a travel guide to their sites in modern Spain. The battle maps are the most readable for the amateur enthusiast that I have seen. Complete listing of participants and their movements make it easier to understand tactics. Photos of the buildings Wellington used as HQ and other interesting sites are throughout. JV