Twenty states are represented in the volume, forming the twenty divisions of the book. Each chapter begins with a discussion of the state's overall political and military position in the war, information that heightens one's appreciation of the site. Accompanying this introductory information is a map of the state that pinpoints the areas of interest. Major campaigns are outlined, with Union and Rebel commanders, strength of forces, and number of casualties listed. Battlegrounds, cemeteries, museums, homes, prisons, and monuments are visited, and each has a listing of addresses, hours of operation, admission fees, if any, and short descriptions of what can be found at the site.

Each chapter boasts beautiful scenic photographs of the sites as they are today, while some Matthew Brady photos of the actual union camps add to the sense of history one feels when touring sites of our heritage. Portraits of the generals painted by their contemporaries heighten the awareness of real people having once lived, plotted, and fought on the ground now traveled.

For a better understanding of the events that took place, a Chronology lists the dates of major events and battles, and for those new to the study of the Civil War, a glossary helps in understanding military terms. A complete index cross-references not only each place and site listed, but each person and event included in the book.

The Ideals Guide toAmerican Civil War Places is remarkably comprehensive and detailed, yet remains small enough to be tucked into a travel bag or automobile compartment. This is a guidebook every travel department should have.