Seas of Gold, Seas of Cotton: Christophe Poulain DuBignon of Jekyll Island Book

One of the most interesting and entertaining Confederate diaries / memoirs I've read, and I've read quite a few. Mr. Benson's unique voice sparkles with wit and great story-telling skills, for example when he self-deprecatingly recounts his adventures, especially meeting some ladies, after escaping from Point Lookout prison camp. In the end he never surrendered, oddly enough. Some basic knowledge of the historical background is probably quite helpful though as it will make it easier to follow his sometimes swift account. The most recent edition provides excellent biographical notes and an introduction that rounds out the original memoirs perfectly. I came away with a sense of having "met" a wonderful guy who I'd love to have met and listened to in real life.