The Battle of Shiloh - The End of Innocence
A general air of optimism prevailed both North and South 
during the first year of the Civil War. Hopes for swift victory were dashed at Shiloh, April 6-7, 1862 - the first major battle of the War, portending the vast scope of conflict yet to come. Winston Groom's engaging and highly readable "Shiloh 1862" is the best overview of this historic event yet. Great maps.
Top Recommendation for April
Shiloh 1862, by Winston Groom (2012 - 398 pp)
Superb history of the appalling first large battle of the Civil War that shocked North and South with its carnage. Riveting portrayal of the death of Gen. Johnson. Winston Groom
Click Here for a Guide & Map for the Shiloh National Military Park
Great Civil War book by a great military writer. Heartrending account of the savage battle over 2 days…and death of Johnson, the South’s great general. The first portent of what was to come. Love the maps. His WW I, A Storm in Flanders also first-rate.