Who is this book for?
- This book would likely appeal to history enthusiasts, particularly those with a strong interest in World War II and D-Day.
- Readers who enjoy oral histories and first-hand accounts of historical events would find this book engaging.
- It would also appeal to those who appreciate detailed, immersive narratives that provide a ground-level view of major historical events.
- Military history buffs, veterans, and those with personal connections to D-Day participants would find this book particularly meaningful.
- Additionally, readers who enjoyed Graff's previous works or similar oral histories would likely appreciate this book.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- Readers who are new to the topic of D-Day or World War II might find this book overwhelming and difficult to follow.
- Those who prefer traditional historical narratives with a clear, linear structure may struggle with the fragmented nature of the oral history format.
- Casual readers looking for a quick overview of D-Day events might find the level of detail excessive.
- People who prefer more analysis and context from the author, rather than primarily first-hand accounts, may be dissatisfied.
- Lastly, readers who are sensitive to descriptions of violence or war experiences might find some of the accounts distressing.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Provides a comprehensive and up-to-date account of D-Day
- Uses over 700 first-hand accounts to create a vivid, human narrative
- Offers unique perspectives from both Allied and Axis participants
- Includes lesser-known stories and unsung heroes
- Captures the emotions, fears, and hopes of those involved
- Reveals extensive details about the planning and execution of the invasion
- Presents a moment-by-moment, beach-by-beach narrative
- Combines accounts from soldiers, generals, politicians, and civilians
- Provides context and background information for each section
- Offers a fitting tribute to the men and women of the Greatest Generation
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- May be overwhelming for readers new to the topic of D-Day
- Some readers found the format of short quotations disjointed
- Lacks deeper exploration of individual stories
- Can be confusing without prior knowledge of D-Day events
- Oral history format may not provide a comprehensive overview
- Some accounts are from long after the events, potentially affecting accuracy
- Narration in the audiobook version lacks emotion for some listeners
- Jumps between different perspectives frequently, which can be hard to follow
- May contain too much detail for casual readers
- Doesn't provide as much context as traditional historical narratives
