Crane's classic war novel revolves around young Henry Fleming, an 18 year old farm boy fighting as a private in the 304th regiment of the Union Army during the American Civil War. Henry/The Youth fights with emotions regarding war and battle. He has read about battles of the past but did not experience it first hand until his regiment marches into the Battle of Chancellorsville. Henry becomes frightened and deserts into a nearby forest. He overhears that his regiment won over the Confederates and is torn with shame and guilt.
Henry witnesses death, of men both known and unknown to him, and finally he returns to his battalion. In one of the following battles, Henry proves to be a very good fighter. He serves also as a flag carrier in one of the battles and somehow manages to not be hit by the Confederates.
There are many resources for this novel, published in 1894, 1895 and 1982, in different editions. It is still valuable today since it contains timeless lessons in war and battle, fear, bravery, courage and pride. It is available in hard copy as well as digital edition at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. There is also a 1951 film version of the text.
