The Second World War {complete}

A fine first hand account of the second World War from the well-known insider Winston Churchill. No book can give a full account of this event but this is probably as complete an account as is available. I found the history and personal information interesting but the details of the battles and army divisions held little interest for me personally.

in fact a 3-vol version as audible audio book. Fascinating both in detail and in broad sweep. striking is his understanding of the details of military encounters and his willingness to travel to or very near the action. Mildly amusing is his long suffering patience with Russian security measures both against himself and in support of Russian visitors to the West. Humour is there too and wonderful mastery of fine prose. Christian Rodska reads with a Churchillian tone but understated.

My copy of this book is actually the Penguin issue released in 1985 with a forward by John Keegan.

It is the first of six volumes describing the Second World War, as written by one of the main players in the story, the British Prime Minister for the majority of the war.

I have always found Winston Churchills writing style very easy to read and this volume, which covers the build up (from the end of World War One) to the appointment of Churchill as Prime Minister in Spring 1940, is very readable and gives a fascinating background to the war.

Definately worth a read, but be warned, if you do so then you will have to get the remaining five volumes as well as this isn't a story you can leave part completed.

This volume covers the build up (from the end of World War One) to the appointment of Churchill as Prime Minister in Spring 1940. It is Churchill's perspective and is like reading a political science text; listening sounds a bit like listening to Charlie Brown's teacher . He claims it's his view of these events and sounds like it. A student of Brit politics or world history would enjoy it immensely. It's my first reading of a book by one of my favorite people in history; don't think I'll read another.

If the first volume was re-named in American English it would have been called, "I told you so, but y'all didn't listen." I like Churchill and history but I must admit I found the first volume a bit of a gloat at times. I'm onto the second volume very soon. Stay tuned.

Unique among WW2 writing, the only Allied leader to write an account. His command of the language is superb. Does not claim to be the final word, just his perspective. Strongly recomend to anyone.

excellent.