This comprehensive A-Z biographical encyclopedia is the culmination of the author's notable contributions over 40 years to Civil War maritime literature. Librarian and historian Smith (Tusculum College Library) describes his criteria for inclusion: "at some point in their wartime experiences, Western river water dripped, in one way or another, on their resumes." Smith has written previous works on these naval campaigns, including Le Roy Fitch (CH, Oct'08, 46-1103), The Timberclads in the Civil War (CH, May'09, 46-4057), Tinclads in the Civil War (CH, May'10, 47-5235), The USS Carondelet (CH, Oct'10, 48-1073), The CSS Arkansas (CH, June'13, 49-5890), and The Fight for the Yazoo, August 1862-July 1864 (2012). This new work assembles nearly 1,000 meticulously researched profiles of Union and Confederate naval or military officers, navy secretaries, civilian steamboat captains and pilots, civilian contractors, and sailors awarded the Medal of Honor or who otherwise distinguished themselves. The informative entries vary in length and many feature photographs, but each provides name, rank, birth and death dates, vessel affiliation, occupation, a summary of war exploits, and a list of sources to assist in further research. There are three appendixes: "Individuals by Organization," "Campaigns, Battles and Engagements," and "Ship Registers." A useful resource for anyone interested in the Civil War. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All academic audiences; general readers. --Eduardo M. Tinoco, University of Southern California