Thomas

Readable, Informative, and Sometimes Terrifying History of the Early Cold War

Revisado: 09-10-24

This comprehensive history captures in great detail the historical events, inter- service rivalries, and civilian- military friction that shaped the US military in the post-world war II era. As with Hornfischer's previous work, he crafts a compelling, page turning, history of events. Most significantly, he captures the interaction of military forces and global events that help shape both policy, strategy and weapons development in the post-war era.

Although the US Navy is the central central subject of the text, equal consideration is given to the Army and Air Force. His chapters covering the Revolt of the Admirals, Korean war, creation of the US 6th fleet, Lebanon Crisis, and the events leading to the NATO Alliance, deftly reveal the interaction of forces that shaped the US Navy. Hornfischer's text expertly condenses the most important post-war policy and strategy decisions in the dangerous nuclear age that allowed the Cold War to remain Cold.
Informative and sometimes terrifying. A must read.

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Beautifully written and expertly researched

Revisado: 02-05-24

The author's balanced approach to Chamberlain's formative experiences in his youth, his college years, marriage, service in the civil war, and multitude of leadership roles during the 50 years after the war let's you know the whole man.
I live in Brunswick Maine and thought I knew a lot about Chamberlain, this book expanded my knowledge of his life and accomplishments ten fold. Beautifully written and expertly researched. I would highly recommend this book.

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A must read for Americans

Revisado: 07-05-22

Grant's remarkable life and achievements are made accessible in this beautifully crafted biography. My understanding and appreciation for Grant's important role in shaping American history was greatly enhanced by White's comprehensive biography. I now feel like I know the man.
As I finished this book on the 4th of July, it struck me that Grant saved the nation and preserved the Union as both general, president, and private citizen. His efforts to create a more just and fair America for African Americans, first nation people, and immigrants offer lessons for modern day leaders. I want to live in Grant's America, but sadly, for too many even today Grant's vision for America remains an elusive dream.
I highly recommend this book for those seeking a better understanding of America's past, and working toward a better future for all.

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Troubled times in 17th Century England

Revisado: 01-11-22

I was introduced to Stephenson's Sci-Fi novels several years ago and only recently discovered his historical fiction novels. Quicksilver was interesting enough to keep me moving on to book two in the trilogy. Well written, and creative in its presentation of formative ideas, discoveries, and individuals that shaped this era.

The narrator was excellent in the audio version.

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Thoughtful and thought provoking

Revisado: 11-22-21

"The Last Thing You Surrender" walks a tension filled tightrope between tragedy and triumph. This beautifully written novel explores the boundaries that separate, and those that connect, the lives of a handful of black and white Alabamian Americans experiencing the tumult of World War Two at home and abroad.  The interactions of these white and black characters deftly draw out the bigger questions of race, social justice, the role of women, and the power of hate and love to alter the course of a life, or even global history.  

This book deepened my understanding of the American experience from many perspectives that are different than my own. I am grateful for having read this thoughtful and thought-provoking book – you will be too. 

 

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One of Kaplan's best

Revisado: 09-09-21

I became a fan of Robert Kaplan's writing when I read "Balkan Ghosts" in 1994 while deployed with the US Navy in support of operations in the former republics of Yugoslavia. I've read almost everything he's published since then. It suffices to say I find his work important to those that the many geopolitical events that affect national security.
The Good American, includes all of the superb writing and analysis on many important world events dating back to the 1970s. what makes this book so unique is that the participant in those events is not Kaplan, rather it is Robert Gersony. Gersony, is someone I had never heard of, but after reading this book I think everyone should know of him.
Kaplan, makes a compelling case that Gersony is the US government's greatest humanitarian. Kaplan supports his writing with dozens of interviews with Gersony and the volumes of reports he generated in his work as a contractor for USAID, and DOS. Kaplan also draws from interviews with former ambassadors, State department workers, and humanitarian relief workers. More than anything, the facts on the ground in countries, to numerous to mention, where Gersony worked, speak for themselves.
Robert Gersony took great risks to discover the truth and he reported the truth to power. His life is evidence that one man dedicated to finding the truth and a deep concern for human rights can make a difference. I'm glad I got to know a little bit about Robert Gersony in the pages of Kaplan's book. Read it, and you'll be glad too.

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A must read for every American in 2018!

Revisado: 09-10-18

I've seen and heard Nance On TV and radio. His Fact Based comments and observations compelled me to read his book. Also, I relate with his background as a Navy Commander Intel officer that worked extensively with SOF.

I was impressed by the level of research and details that support his argument that the Russians are not just interfering with American democracy, but are working to undermine the foundation of all western democracies. Nance quotes from Soviet and modern Russian leaders, senior military and official doctrine to illustrate exactly how and why the Russians are attempting to destroy democracy. The Russians have a clear strategic agenda and Nance explains exactly how they are conducting operations around the world, and especially in America, to achieve their objectives.

If you want to be better informed on the big picture -- read this book!

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An Excellent History of the Second Iraq War

Revisado: 01-14-13

Would you listen to Cobra II again? Why?

Yes. It is a detailed and unbiased account of the planning and execution of Operation Iraqi Freedom

What was one of the most memorable moments of Cobra II?

It is shocking how far off the mark our military and civilian leadership was on almost every assumption made during pre-invasion planning. For instance, the CIA and DOD believed that Iraqi Army units would capitulate and switch sides. This never happened. Instead, our forces were met with stiff resistance along the entire route to Baghdad.

Have you listened to any of Craig Wasson’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No, but I think he did a great job presenting the audio version of the book.

What’s the most interesting tidbit you’ve picked up from this book?

How Donald Rumsfeld directly injected himself into the operational conduct of the war. This is truly unprecedented for a SECDEF.

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