Books Like...
'The Rape of Nanking' by Iris Chang is a harrowing and eye-opening account of the Japanese atrocities committed in Nanking during WWII. The book delves into the brutal occupation of Nanking, detailing the mass carnage, mutilations, rapes, and dehumanizations that occurred. Chang's writing style is factual and unemotional, presenting a clear and straightforward exposition of the events that took place, while also highlighting the lack of accountability of the Japanese government and people.
Chang's book not only sheds light on a dark chapter in history but also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and learning from past atrocities. Through first-hand accounts, testimonies, and detailed descriptions, Chang exposes the cover-up of the grand scale atrocities in Nanking and challenges readers to confront the capacity of humankind for such brutality. Despite the graphic and disturbing nature of the content, the book is praised for its thoroughness, historical significance, and the author's effort to promote humanity and understanding amidst the horrors depicted.
If you liked The Rape of Nanking, here are the top 100 books to read next:
'Bloodlands: Europe Between Hitler and Stalin' by Timothy Snyder delves into the harrowing history of mass killings in Eastern Europe between 1933 and 1945. It vividly portrays the atrocities committed by both the Nazi and Soviet regimes on ordinary people in regions like Poland, Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltic States. Through meticulous research and detailed accounts, Snyder sheds light on the deliberate policies of mass killing, starvation, executions, and deportations that resulted in the deaths of millions of civilians. weaves together individual stories with historical events, offering a comprehensive and chilling narrative of the horrors that unfolded in the bloodlands between Moscow and Berlin.
Nineteen thirty-three was a hungry year in the Western world. The streets of American and European cities teemed with men and women who had lost their jobs, and grown accustomed to waiting in line for...- #2
Save:'Ordinary Men' by Christopher R. Browning delves into the atrocities committed by the German police unit in occupied Poland during World War II. It explores the psychology of ordinary middle-aged conscripts who were coerced into committing heinous acts against mostly peaceful Jewish civilians. Browning meticulously examines the transformation of these men from initial horror to eventual willingness to participate in mass killings, shedding light on the complexities of human behavior under cultural and authoritarian pressures. Through extensive research and interviews, Browning presents a compelling narrative that challenges readers to confront the capacity for evil within seemingly ordinary individuals.
In mid-March 1942 some 75 to 80 percent of all victims of the Holocaust were still alive, while 20 to 25 percent had perished. A mere eleven months later, in mid-February 1943, the percentages were ex... - #3
Save:'King Leopold's Ghost' by Adam Hochschild is a powerful and disturbing account of King Leopold II's colonization of the Congo. The book delves into the atrocities committed during this period, shedding light on the exploitation, violence, and greed that characterized Leopold's rule. Through meticulous research and clear, journalistic writing, Hochschild brings to life the horrors faced by the Congolese people, while also highlighting the heroes who fought against such injustices. The narrative is chilling, revealing a dark chapter in history that continues to impact the region even today.
ON JANUARY 28, 1841, a quarter-century after Tuckey's failed expedition, the man who would spectacularly accomplish what Tuckey tried to do was born in the small Welsh market town of Denbigh. He was e... - #4
Save:"Hiroshima" by John Hersey is a nonfiction book that chronicles the lives of six survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. Through the eyes of these survivors, the book captures the immediate aftermath of the bombing, the long-term effects on the individuals, and their resilience in the face of unimaginable horrors. Hersey's writing style is described as matter-of-fact, clinical, and powerful, presenting a stark and realistic portrayal of the events that unfolded during and after the bombing. The book provides a detailed account of the devastation caused by the atomic bomb and sheds light on the personal experiences of those who lived through this catastrophic event.
AT EXACTLY fifteen minutes past eight in the morning, on August 6, 1945, Japanese time, at the moment when the atomic bomb flashed above Hiroshima, Miss Toshiko Sasaki, a clerk in the personnel depart... - #5
Save:'Night' by Elie Wiesel is a chilling memoir detailing the author's personal experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. Through the eyes of a young Jewish boy, readers witness the horrors of the Holocaust, the loss of family, innocence, and faith. The narrative is raw, honest, and impactful, shedding light on the inhumane treatment endured by prisoners and the struggle to find hope and humanity amidst unimaginable darkness.
THEY CALLED HIM MOISHE THE BEADLE, as if his entire life he had never had a surname. He was the jack-of-all-trades in a Hasidic house of prayer, a shtibl. The Jews of Sighet—the little town in Transyl... - #6
Save:Vincent Bevins' book, 'The Jakarta Method', delves into the dark history of Washington's anticommunist crusade and the mass murder program that had a profound impact on the world. Through extensive research and compelling storytelling, Bevins uncovers the brutal realities of imperialism, CIA interventions, and the violent suppression of socialist movements in various third world countries. The book sheds light on the ruthless tactics employed by the U.S. government to further its interests, the devastating consequences of these actions on local populations, and the lasting effects that still resonate today.
THE UNITED STATES, A WESTERN European settler colony in North America, emerged from World War II as by far the most powerful state on Earth. This was a surprise to most Americans, and to most of the w... 'First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers' by Loung Ung is a memoir that recounts the author's harrowing experiences during the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. It provides a first-person account of living through the Cambodian genocide, shedding light on the atrocities and struggles faced by the author and her family. The book delves into the brutal realities of the Cambodian killing fields in the 1970s, offering a poignant and heartbreaking narrative of survival and loss.
The writing style of 'First They Killed My Father' by Loung Ung has been praised for its raw and emotional portrayal of the author's childhood during the Khmer Rouge era. Readers have found the memoir to be informative, impactful, and eye-opening, painting a vivid picture of the author's resilience and courage in the face of unimaginable horrors. The book is described as a life-changing read that evokes strong emotions and deep reflection on the human capacity for survival and endurance.
Phnom Penh city wakes early to take advantage of the cool morning breeze before the sun breaks through the haze and invades the country with sweltering heat. Already at 6 A.M. people in Phnom Penh are...'Shake Hands with the Devil' by Romeo Dallaire is a non-fiction account of the Rwandan Genocide, as seen through the eyes of the author who was the head of the UN peacekeeping mission during that time. The book delves into the darkest depths of society, showcasing how politics can hinder human decency in times of crisis. Dallaire's memoir focuses on his experiences commanding the UN mission in Rwanda immediately before and during the genocide, shedding light on the horrific events that unfolded and the sacrifices made by himself and his team.
The narrative of 'Shake Hands with the Devil' offers a raw and unfiltered perspective on the Rwandan Genocide, highlighting the price of inaction and the consequences of not doing enough to prevent such atrocities. Dallaire's writing style captures the essence of the conflict, providing readers with a harrowing account of the events that transpired, showcasing both the darkest and brightest aspects of humanity in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
MY FIRST LOVE has always been the army. It has been my mistress, my muse and my family. Even as a child, I never had any doubt about where I wanted to go or what I wanted to do. My first toy, brought ...'Red Famine: Stalin's War on Ukraine, 1921-1933' by Anne Applebaum delves into the callously engineered extermination of millions of Ukrainians through forced starvation under Stalin's regime. The author meticulously details the brutal suppression of rebellion in Ukraine, forced collectivization, and the eradication of wealthier peasants, leading to a devastating famine. Through oral accounts and suppressed records, Applebaum exposes the horrors of the Holodomor, shedding light on Stalin's efforts to suppress the existence of the famine and the lasting impact it has on Ukraine's relationship with Russia.
The warning signs were ample. By the early spring of 1932, the peasants of Ukraine were beginning to starve. Secret police reports and letters from the grain-growing districts all across the Soviet Un...- #10
Save:'In the Balance' by Harry Turtledove is an alternate history novel set during World War II, where an alien invasion interrupts the conflict on Earth. The story explores how humans from different nations come together to resist the alien invaders, leading to a fragile alliance between major combatants. Turtledove weaves a tale of how lives on both sides are changed by this unprecedented world war, showcasing a fascinating scenario of human-alien cooperation and conflict.
The plot of 'In the Balance' is conceptually brilliant, featuring a thought-provoking premise of aliens with advanced technology invading a less developed Earth during World War II. The story is engaging, with a heavy emphasis on character development and intricate plotlines that keep readers hooked. Turtledove skillfully blends historical accuracy with sci-fi elements, creating a captivating narrative that explores themes of cooperation, prejudice, and the impact of alien invasion on humanity.
Fleetlord Atvar strode briskly into the command station of the invasion fleet bannership 127th Emperor Hetto. Officers stiffened in their seats as he came in. But for the way his eye turrets swiveled ...
