Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era (Volume VI of The Oxford History of the United States)

This book is a political and military history at its best. As many reviewers have already commented, for a one-volume item this is probably the best. McPherson uses a chronological approach to cover the war's background, battles, political developments and intrigue, characters, and much more. The dispassionate treatment of how slavery was only a detonator excuse (the real reasons are much more intricate) but slowly became a deciding factor in the war is really appreciated. He clearly shows admiration for Lincoln with the president coming across as the great historical figure he is (I look forward to read his short biography). This is also not a North or South biased book, with generals Lee and Grant (among others) portrayed with the same devotion. Battle Cry for Freedom is a vivid picture of the war and its causes. It's also a very interesting and fun read.