Ghosts of Honolulu: A Japanese Spy, A Japanese American Spy Hunter, and the Untold Story of Pearl Harbor

by

Mark Harmon, Leon Carroll

Should you read this book?

The best public reviews summarized for you.

Who is this book for?

  • History buffs interested in WWII, especially the Pacific theater.
  • Fans of naval and military history.
  • Those curious about the origins of NCIS and naval intelligence.
  • Readers who enjoy learning about lesser-known historical figures and events.
  • People interested in the Japanese American experience during WWII.

Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?

  • Readers looking for a straightforward spy thriller or narrative history.
  • Those who prefer more in-depth character development and personal stories.
  • People who have trouble keeping track of many names and places in non-fiction.
  • Readers seeking a comprehensive history of Pearl Harbor or WWII.
  • Those who dislike books with a dry, academic tone.

Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book

  • Well-researched and provides new insights into the history surrounding Pearl Harbor
  • Sheds light on the experiences of Japanese Americans in Hawaii during WWII
  • Offers an interesting look at the early days of naval intelligence and NCIS
  • Fast-paced and engaging writing style for a non-fiction historical book
  • Narrated well by Mark Harmon in the audiobook version
  • Provides good historical context and background information
  • Highlights lesser-known historical figures like Douglas Wada
  • Explores the complex loyalties and challenges faced by Japanese Americans
  • Includes extensive footnotes and documentation of sources
  • Covers both American and Japanese perspectives on events

Things people didn't like as much about this book

  • Can be dry and tedious at times, especially as an audiobook
  • Jumps around between many different people and events, making it hard to follow
  • Lacks depth on some key figures and events
  • Not as focused on Douglas Wada as the description suggests
  • Contains some dramatized conversations that may bother history purists
  • Lacks photos or visual aids that would help illustrate people and places
  • Can be overwhelming with many unfamiliar names and locations
  • Skips over large periods of time without explanation
  • Doesn't delve deeply into critical issues like racism against Japanese Americans
  • Formatting and structure feel disjointed at times

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