I was wondering, to those people who are reading "An Army At Dawn" by Rick Atkinson, what do you most like about the book? This question applies to not just the overall work but also to the facts, methods of writing, etc., how did you like them?
Also, would you want to buy the second part of the Liberation Trilogy when it is released in 2005(?) that is on the invasion of Italy?
In my opinion, Atkinson is a superb writer and his skills translate well to Historical subjects. Individual aspects that enhance the book for me are; the description of every "character" introduced that mentions certain mannerisms, etc. that allow the reader to get to know the characters personally. Also, Atkinsons vocabulary is superb. Unlike some other non-fiction, historical authours, he has an excellent abiltiy to articulate his thoughts which makes the book not just a dry piece of history but and actual "piece of writing" so to speak. One other point, but certainly not the last thing I like about the book, is that there are no citations so the book can be read without as many distractions.
Anyway, you can probably tell that I like the book so now I would like to hear what other readers think.
Thanks for your patience,
Andrew

I have not read this book (what is it about exactly, anyway, you guys are always talking about it) but are you saying that there are no footnotes or endnotes at all?

Nic

This has to be among the best books I have read on World War II. I had the opportunity years ago to discuss the Battle of Kasserine Pass with former members of the 1st Armored Division. Their recollections of the lack of training and inept leadership stand out in my mind. Having said that, Atkinson puts together a series of confused battles that even veterans will find amazing. His descriptions are accurate and cover the spectrum from strategic planning to tactical emplacements. I was most impressed with his writings on the employment of the 1st Armored Division and especially his use of the exploits of LTC Waters. The detail is superb and well-balanced. Highly recommend it, maps are clear and undersatndable. Great job.

I like the brutally honest way the author writes about the shortcomings of the American Army. We all know the story (WWII) has a happy ending but up til now all I really knew about Kasserine pass was that we got beat, that our troops turned and ran. The insight provided about the uncoordinated deployment of the troops, the confused chain of command and the leaders who just didn't measure up or hadn't yet reached their stride is to me interesting and useful.
I will buy the second book.
v/r,
Cob
Cob

I am reading this book too.

As an Army Cadet I must say that it teaches alot about leadership, teamwork and courage. The way Atkinson writes about the officers during that campaign gives me a great insight on what it takes to lead men when the going gets tough. I put this book up there in the best books I ever read because its not just a book on military history, its a book about human nature as well.

Cheers,

CDT Reimund Manneck
U.S. Army ROTC

I have to agree with most of the comments about this book -- very, very good.

Oberst: My copy has endnotes. You got a bootleg copy? Huge book with some great photos and maps. I can't wait for the sequels.

As Cob points out, the book does point out shortcomings in the U.S. Army, but it also is brutally honest about the French, the Brits, the locals, the Germans ... I like how Atkinson names names, placing blame where it belongs. I love the little personality profiles he gives on the major players -- their families, their education, their alliances and enemies, their personality quirks.