Over a hundred and fifty years have gone by since the Civil War was fought, but it generates headlines and controversy to this day.  “The War That Forged a Nation:  why the Civil War Still Matters” by James McPherson explores the wars causes and consequences in this brief but meaty volume.  “Fateful Lightning” by Allen Guelzo (Gettysburg) offers a succinct one volume history of the war for beginners; Shelby Foote’s 3-volume narrative could keep you busy all winter (but the rewards are great).  Grant by Rod Chernow profiles one of the major actors in that conflict.