David J. Bercuson

I recall the controversry surrounding this program and wondering it was so hot an issue because the only aspect I recall was the claim that the men flying the bombers did not know they were targeting civilians. Having read many accounts of flying bombers over occupied Europe, I knew that the men who flew them knew they were dropping bombs on civilians. This volume examines the controversay from many angles. Some of the material was prepared for the CBC Ombudsman by historians who had show more expertise on the three topics covered in the original CBC Television programs. This is a surprisingly easy read which I thouroughly enjoyed. Even if you have never seen the TV programs in question or are unaware of the issues related to them, you will find the analyses of the history facsinating. show less

I've re-read this today, which is the 70th anniversary of the sinking of the Bismarck by the Royal Navy, in which over 2,000 of its crew lost their lives. This book is a fine account not just of the battleship's one and only sortie, but also the background against which it took place, and the personalities involved which produced a result very different to what it might have been. The book interestingly shows that Hitler, although no sailor on his own admission, had a much clearer and show more correct view of the future of naval strategy and fleet formation than his own admirals. The book is based on extensive research but wears its learning lightly and is suitable for a wide variety of readers. show less

An in-depth and well researched study of the Battle of the Atlantic, focussing on two ships and their encounter with each other. Both ships and evolution of their tactical doctrines and technical capabilities are covered in depth. The electronic war, and the psychological states of the commanders are well covered. The bibliographic essay at the end is a fine guide to the research available to the authors. If you only read one book on this topic...this is it.

Mr. Bercuson and his friends examine the claims made in the TV documentary "The Valour and the Horror." They reveal some factual inaccuracies, but the original's attempt to reveal some of the psychological damages wreaked on the participants is not damaged by this work. This reply seems to be a bit nit-picky in tone.