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March summary
Brief summary
March by Geraldine Brooks is a historical novel that follows the experiences of Mr. March, the absent father in Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. Set during the Civil War, it offers a unique perspective on the era.
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March
Summary of key ideas
The Life of a Civil War Chaplain
In March by Geraldine Brooks, we're introduced to Mr. March, an idealistic young chaplain from Concord, Massachusetts, who joins the Union Army during the American Civil War. The story begins with him working in a makeshift hospital in Washington, D.C. where he is tending to the wounded soldiers. The harsh realities of war and the suffering of the soldiers make him question his faith, and he also experiences the prejudices and cruelty of the world.
March is a man of strong principles, passionate about the abolition of slavery. He is also an ardent supporter of the Union cause. His idealism is tested when he is sent to the South on a secret mission to convince the Confederate planters to free their slaves. He meets Grace, a young slave woman, who helps him in his mission. March is struck by her intelligence and resilience, and their encounters challenge his preconceived notions about race and slavery.
The Impact of the Civil War
Through a series of flashbacks, we learn about March's life before the war. We see him as a teacher, a husband, and a father. His wife, Marmee (a nod to Louisa May Alcott's Little Women), is a strong, independent woman, who shares his progressive views. They are a loving couple with differing opinions, but their bond is strong. March's experiences in the war, however, begin to change him. He is exposed to the brutality and horror of the battlefield, and his health deteriorates.
Meanwhile, the war takes its toll on Marmee and their daughters back home. They struggle to make ends meet and face their own hardships. Marmee, a staunch abolitionist like her husband, works tirelessly for the cause. She is a pillar of strength for their family and the community, but she also grapples with her own fears and doubts about the war's outcome and its impact on their family.
Confronting the Harsh Realities
As the story progresses, March's mission in the South takes a tragic turn. His idealistic plans are shattered by the harsh reality of the situation, and he is forced to confront the complexities of the war and the people involved. His relationship with Grace becomes more complicated, and he witnesses the brutal treatment of the slaves by their masters. These experiences deeply affect him, and he starts to question his own actions and beliefs.
Back in the North, Marmee and the girls also face their share of tragedies. The war brings them face-to-face with poverty, illness, and loss. Marmee's unwavering strength is tested, and she finds herself grappling with the realities of a world at war. Despite the distance, both March and Marmee are bound by their shared ideals and love for each other, even as they struggle with their individual battles.
A Complex Portrait of War and Humanity
In March, Geraldine Brooks paints a complex and raw portrait of the Civil War and its impact on individuals and families. The novel challenges the romanticized view of war and heroism, instead highlighting its harsh realities and moral ambiguities. Through March's journey, we see the erosion of his idealism and the human cost of the war. His experiences force him to confront his own flaws and prejudices, and he emerges as a more nuanced, flawed, and empathetic character.
In the end, March is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the struggle for justice in a time of turmoil. It offers a fresh perspective on a well-known historical period and its characters, presenting them as complex individuals grappling with their own humanity. The novel leaves us with a deeper understanding of the human condition and the enduring impact of war on the lives it touches.
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What is March about?
March by Geraldine Brooks is a novel that reimagines the classic story of Little Women from the perspective of the absent father, Mr. March. Set during the American Civil War, the book delves into themes of love, war, and the search for meaning in a time of great turmoil. It offers a unique and thought-provoking take on a well-known tale.
March Review
March (2005) tells the story of a chaplain in the American Civil War. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Offers a fresh perspective on the war, exploring the emotional toll of fighting for freedom and justice.
- Blends historical accuracy with vivid characters and gripping narratives, captivating readers from start to finish.
- Portrays the struggle for survival and principles in a compelling and thought-provoking way, ensuring an engaging read.
Who should read March?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction, particularly stories set during the Civil War
Those interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and moral dilemmas
Individuals who appreciate well-researched and thought-provoking narratives
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Book summaries like March
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March FAQs
What is the main message of March?
The main message of March is the impact of war on relationships and personal values.
How long does it take to read March?
Reading March takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in about 15 minutes.
Is March a good book? Is it worth reading?
March is worth reading for its captivating storytelling and deep exploration of human experiences.
Who is the author of March?
The author of March is Geraldine Brooks.
What to read after March?
If you're wondering what to read next after March, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener
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- Alanna by Tamora Pierce