The Red Acorn

The Red Acorn by John McElroy is a historical novel set during the American Civil War. The story is named after the emblem worn by the soldiers of the First Division of the Fourteenth Army Corps a red acorn that symbolizes their bravery and achievements on the battlefield. The novel follows the experiences of a young Union soldier named Harry Glen who joins the army at the start of the war and becomes part of the First Division. Through Harrys eyes the reader experiences some of the most significant battles of the war including Mill Springs Perryville Shiloh and Chickamauga. The novel provides a detailed and realistic portrayal of the harsh realities of war including the brutality of combat the political tensions within the Union army and the personal struggles of soldiers as they fight for their cause. The Red Acorn is an interesting book that shows the American Civil War and the men who fought in it from a different point of view.