Books matching: personal account
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
'Into Thin Air' by Jon Krakauer is a gripping personal account of the disastrous 1996 Mount Everest expedition, where several climbers lost their lives due to a sudden storm. Krakauer, a journalist and experienced climber, vividly describes the harrowing journey to the summit, highlighting the extreme physical and psychological challenges faced by the climbers. Through his detailed narration, Krakauer delves into the commercialization of Himalayan adventures, the allure of climbing the world's highest peak, and the tragic consequences of nature's unpredictability.
The book provides a chilling insight into the calamitous events that unfolded on Everest, showcasing Krakauer's exceptional storytelling skills and his ability to evoke intense emotions in readers. The narrative transitions from a tale of adventure to a heart-wrenching story of survival and loss, offering a profound exploration of human nature, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of conquering the unconquerable.
Rob Hall New Zealand, leader and head guide Mike Groom Australia, guide Andy “Harold” Harris New Zealand, guide Helen Wilton New Zealand, Base Camp manager Dr. Caroline Mackenzie New Zealand, Base Cam...- #2
Storm of Steel by Ernst Junger is a memoir recounting the experiences of a German soldier fighting on the Western Front during World War I. The narrative is unadulterated by politics and anti-war sentiment, focusing solely on the day-to-day life of a soldier in the trenches. The book provides a vivid and graphic portrayal of the brutality of war, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the personal reflections of the author on his role in the conflict.
The train stopped at Bazancourt, a small town in Champagne, and we got out. Full of awe and incredulity, we listened to the slow grinding pulse of the front, a rhythm we were to become mightily famili... 'The Unwomanly Face of War: An Oral History of Women in World War II' by Svetlana Alexievich is a collection of stories from Russian women who served on the front lines during WWII. The book focuses on the experiences of these women, including their roles as sappers, snipers, pilots, artillery officers, and more, highlighting their heroism, sacrifice, and struggles. The stories are told in a raw and unfiltered manner, giving voice to the women who fought for their country in various capacities during the war.
The book presents a unique perspective on WWII, shedding light on the experiences of women who were often overlooked in traditional historical accounts. Through oral histories and personal anecdotes, 'The Unwomanly Face of War' delves into the lives of these women before, during, and after the war, portraying their resilience, courage, and the challenges they faced on the battlefield and in their personal lives. The writing style is described as poignant, informative, moving, and at times difficult to read but ultimately offers a gripping and insightful look at the untold stories of female veterans of WWII.
*1 Osip Mandelstam (1891–1938) was one of the greatest Russian poets of the twentieth century. The epigraph comes from “Lines on the Unknown Soldier” (1937–1938). Mandelstam died in transit to one of ...'Commando: A Boer Journal Of The Boer War' by Deneys Reitz is a firsthand account of the Boer War, detailing the experiences of a Boer participant. The author describes the life and struggles of the Boer Commandos, their bravery, resourcefulness, and determination to remain independent against the British forces. Reitz provides insights into the battles fought, the harsh conditions faced by the Boers, and the eventual realization of the overwhelming might of the British Empire.
sheds light on the feelings of the Boers during the war, their respect for British soldiers, and the challenges faced by a small farming community against a powerful empire. Reitz's writing style keeps the reader engaged, providing a vivid depiction of commando life during the war and the Boers' unwavering fighting spirit despite the impending defeat.
Our home was at Bloemfontein, the State capital, and here my brothers and I grew up. There were five of us, two older and two younger than myself, and we led a. pleasant Tom-Sawyerlike existence such ...- #5
Miracle in the Andes is a gripping first-person account by Nando Parrado, one of the survivors of a plane crash in the Andes mountains. The book details the harrowing tale of survival, resilience, and hope as Parrado and his companions fight for their lives in the harsh conditions of the mountains. Through Parrado's personal perspective, readers are immersed in the emotional journey of the survivors, from the initial crash to their miraculous rescue, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable challenges.
IT WAS FRIDAY, the thirteenth of October. We joked about that—flying over the Andes on such an unlucky day, but young men make those kinds of jokes so easily. Our flight had originated one day earlier... - #6
'Iron Coffins: A Personal Account of the German U-boat Battles of World War II' by Herbert A. Werner is a gripping memoir that provides a firsthand account of the German U-boat warfare during World War II. The book chronicles Werner's experiences from his early days as a naval officer to eventually commanding his own U-boat. Through vivid storytelling, Werner takes the reader on a journey through the glory days of U-boats in wolf packs to the desperate and dangerous missions towards the end of the war. The writing style is straightforward, drawing readers in with detailed descriptions of the challenges faced by U-boat crews and the evolving tactics and technologies of naval warfare during the conflict.
- #7
'The Forgotten Soldier' by Guy Sajer is a harrowing first-hand account of a foot soldier's experience in one of Germany's defeated WWII armies, particularly focusing on the horrors of the Eastern Front. The book provides a brutal and personal narrative of the author's struggles to survive as a young Frenchman in the German army during World War II, shedding light on the realities of war beyond the glamorized versions often portrayed.
I had to shoulder a brutally heavy burden. Suddenly there were two flags for me to honor, and two lines of defense-the Siegfried and the Maginot-and powerful external enemies. I entered the service, d... - #8
'Testament of Youth' by Vera Brittain is a memoir that vividly recounts the author's experiences during World War I. Brittain's writing style is described as emotional, honest, and filled with pure emotion, drawing readers into the heart of her life's miseries and successes. The book follows Brittain's journey from a sheltered, middle-class English girl to a nurse on the front lines, grappling with the horrors of war and the loss of loved ones. Through her personal account, readers gain insight into the impact of the war on Brittain's life and society as a whole, shedding light on the sacrifices, grief, and resilience of a generation shattered by conflict.
‘Long ago there lived a rich merchant who, besides possessing more treasures than any king in the world, had in his great hall three chairs, one of silver, one of gold, and one of diamonds. But his gr... Enemy at the Gates: The Battle for Stalingrad by William Craig is a narrative non-fiction book that delves into the pivotal Battle of Stalingrad during World War II. The book provides a collection of personal experiences from both the German and Russian perspectives, bringing to life the horrific events of the campaign. It covers a wide range of accounts, from generals to soldiers, and presents a chronological retelling of the battle, highlighting the profound drama of combat and the emotions of the participants.
The book is praised for its engaging and readable writing style, painting a graphic and powerful picture of the events at Stalingrad. It captures the horrors inflicted on both the Russians and the invaders, while also shedding light on the complexities of the political landscape at the time. Through meticulous research and first-person accounts, William Craig offers a detailed and tragic portrayal of the battle, emphasizing the human cost and the strategic implications of this historical event.
Parched by the blazing sun of summer, the grassy plain of the steppe country is light brown in hue. From the vicinity of Lugansk in the west to Kazakhstan in the east, the barren tableland stretches m...- #10
'They Called It Passchendaele' by Lyn Macdonald is a meticulously researched book that tells the story of the Third Battle of Ypres, focusing on the personal experiences of the men and women who were on the battlefield. The book vividly portrays the horrors of war through first-hand accounts and eyewitness testimonies, providing a comprehensive look at the conditions in the trenches and the human sacrifices made during the battle.