“Captain Cook”: Pvt. Edwin A. Loosley of the 81st Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment

The book consists of a lengthy series of letters and a diary started midway through the American Civil War. Opening with an introduction to Edwin's life, the book dives into the letters he sent to his wife, Ann, who lived in DuQuoin, Illinois. Edwin was both the cook for the regimental officers and a regular soldier during military action. The correspondence covers all aspects of his life as a solider and the events in which his Illinois Regiment were involved. For the last portion of the war, Edwin also kept a diary of brief notes. In his letters, he intersperses commentary on life in general and also addresses issues concerning his home life, wife, and children. The main portions of his letters deal with two topics, the camp life experienced by soldiers, and the various engagements in which he and his regiment participated. An epilogue gives a brief synopsis of Edwin's life and career after the Civil War. Many locations and battles are covered throughout this compelling book. The story begins with enlistment and early training. This is followed by service in western Tennessee and Mississippi. Major coverage begins with the events at Vicksburg in 1863, and continues with the Red River Campaign, travels to Missouri, then battles at Nashville and Mobile. Edwin was wounded northeast of Mobile and, after spending time in a field hospital in Louisiana, he travels north to Chicago, is discharged, and goes home to southern Illinois.