Books Like...

'Sicily '43' by James Holland is a well-researched historical account of the invasion of Sicily in 1943. It presents a comprehensive perspective from various sides of the battle, including the Italian, German, American, British, and Canadian armies. The narrative is presented in a chronological manner, detailing the planning stages, battles, and personal experiences of combatants and civilians on both sides of the conflict. Despite some criticisms regarding the organization of the content, the book offers an up-close and personal view of the invasion while also providing insights into the strategy and decision-making involved in the campaign.

Kokoda by Peter FitzSimons is a compelling historical account of the Australian troops' defense of their homeland against the invading Japanese army during World War II. The book provides a vivid and detailed narrative of the battles fought along the Kokoda Track in New Guinea, showcasing the bravery and endurance of the Australian soldiers against the superior enemy forces. Through personal stories from both sides of the conflict, FitzSimons humanizes the horrifying events of war, shedding light on the emergence of the Australian character and its place in the world during that tumultuous time.

'Damned' in the series 'Legion of the Damned' by Sven Hassel is a riveting account from the inside of the Nazi war machine, starting with the author's hellish life in a concentration camp and moving on to life in a penal unit. The story is exciting, depressing, and often shocking, with a dark and somber tone that delves into the complexities of war and human behavior. The characters, like Hassel himself, the Old Man, Porta, Tiny, Heide, and the Legionnaire, navigate through a world of nauseous violence, slapstick humor, and disillusioned nihilism, offering a unique perspective on the true nature of war and its impact on individuals.

The writing style of 'Damned' is rough-edged, authentic, and intense, with a mix of brief snippets of real-life wartime horror preceding each chapter, creating a cumulative effect of profound power. Hassel's narrative, whether a memoir, oral history, or outright fiction, immerses the reader in a world where the characters kill, spare, and joke with equal ease, showcasing the complexities of man in the midst of conflict. Despite some gaps in information and a lack of coherence in the storytelling, the book captivates the reader with its powerful and fascinating portrayal of life in a penal unit during World War II.

"Facing the Mountain: A True Story of Japanese American Heroes in World War II" by Daniel James Brown tells the story of Japanese Americans who faced discrimination and incarceration during World War II, yet chose to fight for the United States in the 442nd infantry Regiment. not only focuses on the battles these soldiers fought in Italy, France, and Germany, but also sheds light on the racism and discrimination Japanese Americans faced on the West Coast and Hawaii. Through detailed accounts of the soldiers' experiences in concentration camps, legal battles, and on the battlefield, the book highlights the resilience and heroism of these individuals.

Daniel James Brown's writing style in "Facing the Mountain" is praised for its comprehensive storytelling and meticulous research. The author delves deep into the history of Japanese Americans during World War II, interviewing survivors and examining records to provide an in-depth look at the 442nd Regimental Combat Team's struggles and achievements. not only portrays the bravery and sacrifices of these soldiers but also addresses the lasting impact of racism and discrimination faced by Japanese Americans in the 1940s.

'Quartered Safe Out Here' by George MacDonald Fraser is a World War II memoir that offers a vivid and honest account of the author's experiences as a soldier in Burma. The book delves into the life of a British infantryman on the frontlines, providing a personal view of the 'forgotten war'. Fraser's writing style includes phonetically spelled out accents and recreated conversations, bringing the characters to life and immersing the reader in the day-to-day struggles and camaraderie of the soldiers. The author candidly recounts the horrors of war, the challenges of memory recall, and his reflections on the past, all set against the backdrop of the XIV Army campaign in Burma.

'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.