Published: 2006
Rating: 5
Goodreads
This book focuses on the North African conflict of the Allied forces under General Dwight D. Eisenhower against the formidable German general Erwin Rommel, nicknamed The Desert Fox. Other larger-than-life generals who make their mark in this conflict are General George Patton (US) and General Bernard Montgomery (British). From North Africa, the war goes to Sicily and then into Italy.
Published: 2008
Rating: 5
Goodreads
This book covers the planning and execution of Operation Overlord or the D-Day cross-channel invasion up to the Battle of The Bulge. While perhaps common knowledge to many, I did not know that part of the success of D-Day was the German's acceptance of an elaborately constructed ruse - Patton's command of a fake army intending to invade Calais. I also did not know that horrific weather threatened to postpone the invasion and that it was up to Eisenhower to make the final determination whether or not to proceed. Once the green light was given, he wrote and carried in his pocket, a very short speech taking full responsibility if the invasion had failed. Thank God he never had to deliver it. I couldn't read fast enough.
Published: 2009
Rating: 5
Goodreads
The book begins with Hitler's last counter-offensive which took the Allied forces by surprise and became the infamous Battle of the Bulge. It ends with his suicide, the surrender of Germany and the disclosure of the Nazi's "final solution" to the Jewish problem. Another riveting book.
Over Veteran's Day, a number of military movies were being shown on TV. My husband and I watched George C. Scott in his iconic role as Patton.
Published: 2009
Rating: 4
Goodreads
I picked this up from the library and once started, I read within a couple of days. What I found the most interesting was her clear articulation of the difference between grief and clinical depression. I wrote down many quotes for further reflection and perhaps a post on Josh's blog. I may need to purchase this book for my library.
Published: 1954
Rating: 5
Goodreads
I love the LOTR trilogy movies by Peter Jackson, have been to New Zealand and seen some of the landscape that was filmed in the movies but have never read the books. I did try several years ago but got hopelessly bored and stopped.
I am not sure what is different now - maybe my reading of classics over the past couple of years has heightened the appreciation of good prose. After reading and thoroughly enjoying The Hobbit, it was time to try The Fellowship of the Ring again. I loved it!
