Thanks for the recommendations, I’m 20 years old, Im at the age where I’m finally really starting to understand the position of privilege we are in because our ancestors fought so bravely for us. My great grandfather was in Italy during ww2, it’s crazy to think he went all the way from New Zealand to Italy to fight. My nana showed me his dog tags the other day, was both awesome and scary knowing those tags had served in ww2!
My father was a WW2 veteran. He passed away a couple years ago. I will be retiring soon an will be able to commit more time to reading. I have read several books on WW2, but not any on this list. A am anxious to get started on it. Thank you.
I have richard overy's book 'why the allies won'. It's my favourite book on the second world war. I will check out some of the other books you recommend. Fun video!
I'm going to recommend a book. Visions of Victory by Gerhard Weinberg. It gives the ideas of eight of the leaders of both sides of what a post war world would be like assuming they won. I've read most of the books on your list, but will be picking up Hanson's book on your recommendation. Thanks for your presentation. Dan
This is a list of books by historians. Shirer was a journalist and a principle who participated in many of the events. While I agree it's a great book, Shirer occasionally gets some (not insignificant things) wrong. For instance, he writes that the Nazis themselves started the Reichstag fire, while the historical consensus is that the fire was the work of a sole arsonist - Marinus va der Lubbe.
First off: subscribed! I read B. H. Liddell Hart's History of the Second World War in Bahrain, after the cease fire in Desert Storm. I've read A Torch to the Enemy (Fire bombing of Tokyo) and E. B. Sledge's With the Old Breed, but you were right; the toughest book I've personally ever read has been Rampage. With the covid situation, I've found a wonderful thing called Audible. I just finished Ian Tolls Pacific War Trilogy, and I'm going to knock off a couple books on the 1990 Persian Gulf War first (as a participant, I've had no perspective of the overall event. Figured it's about time to start getting that. Road to Safwan & The Fires of Babylon, both inspired by game designer Gregory Smith, who was with The Big Red One there), but then I can start in on the other 9 books on your list. 👍👍 (EDIT: Just purchased The Second World Wars by Victor Davis Hanson)
Thanks. The VDH book is fantastic. A couple of years ago I met briefly with Dennis Showalter after he had a luncheon with some fellow grad students. One student asked him what books he'd assign for a graduate readings course on WWII, and I was delighted that he mentioned two books that I would include on that list - VDH's The Second World Wars and Overy's Why the Allies Won. I read John Keegan's book years ago on the Persian Gulf War - good book but brief. That is a conflict I find fascinating for several reasons and would like to learn more about. In the meantime, more WWII reading for me.
Hey Cody. We've spoken this way before (I'm the "also too" critic!). Anyway, this is the first video I've watched on your new channel. I found it very interesting. I have one criticism here. I realise you are American, and in your mind you are probably speaking to Americans. I am a proud Canadian. In your video you mention Americans, British, and Russians several times. I certainly don't take anything away from any of these nations in the war. However, I find it, at the very least, irritating how often Canada's contribution is entirely disregarded by everyone who isn't Canadian (except for the Dutch). Canada was Great Britain's most important allie for the first half of the war. Canada was in the war from the beginning, and served on land, sea, and air, and in all theatres. So, where's the love? Other than that good video :-)
Quite right, sir. I've always admired the Canadian contributions to the war. They fought with bravery and skill throughout the war, and their economic aid and production alone arguably kept Britain in the war before U.S. entry. I suppose I'm used to the Big Three approach to the war, that kind of lumps Canada and the commonwealth in with Britain. That is not a fair thing to do, but it happens. I shall try to make a point of highlighting Canadian contributions when appropriate going forward. Much thanks.
Years ago I read the Beevor book on Stalingrad and, honestly, the experience was depressing The sheer horror of battle and the utter lack of humanity described was something for which I was not prepared. Since that time I have read much more about the eastern front and I am still amazed at the amount of sacrifice and suffering of all combatants. And, yes, the Beevor book on Stalingrad is very highly recommended.
I enjoyed your video. My favorite book is about the battle of Midway 'Shattered Sword' by John Lundftrum. It covers the prewar period, Japanese doctrine as well as the battle itself.
The only book that I have that’s also on the list is “At Dawn We Slept”. FWIW here is my list that is not in any particular order 1) “At Dawn We Slept” by Prange, Goldstein, and Dillon 2I “Enemy At The Gates” by William Craig. 3) “Panzer Battles” by F. W. von Mellethin. 4) “History of the Second World War” by Captain B. H. Liddell-Hart 5) “The Rommel Papers” edited by Liddell-Hart 6) “The Battle of Guadalcanal” by BGen Samuel Griffith, USMC 7) “Neither Fear Nor Hope” by von Senger und Etterlin 8) “The Bitter Woods” by John S. D. Eisenhower 9) “Company Commander” by Charles McDonald 10) “Flying Fortress” by Edward Jabsonski Nearly all of these books were written prior to the revelations of The Ultra Secret. One of my college professors in 1980 predicted that reputations would be affected by the declassification. Some of my choices might be considered flawed by some. I spent fifteen minutes typing this up. Another 10 minutes thinking on which books to list. I don’t want to spend all evening on it. And yeah, all of these choices are books I read from twenty to over forty years ago. I read the FLYING FORTRESS for the first time when I was 14.
Good list. I was looking primarily at the historians' take, as opposed to those of actual actors in the conflict, (i.e. Mellethin, Liddell-Hart, MacDonald). I'm thinking of doing another list at some point featuring works by the historical actors. Thanks for sharing.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 that’s right. It really gave me a sense of what daily wartime life may have been like for so many different people, military and civilian, as well as putting into perspective the magnitude of some of the logistical and economic challenges the different powers faced.
Love the new channel. I would throw in a suggestion for World at Arms: A Global History of World War II by Gerhard Weinberg. IMO this is the quintessential history if you want to understand the motivations behind the major strategic and political decisions of the war and their impacts (such as the motivation for dropping the atomic bomb). It's a huge book but well worth the effort.
Hi Cody, can I ask you a suggestion for a book that digs into the origins of WWII? the social, economical and political reasons that generated the conflict in Europe? I started following your bg channel, but this ona has been an amazing surprise. I really appreciate your job! You are great! Dario
Thank you, sir. You may want to start with A.J.P. Taylor's "The Origins of the Second World War," and and Akira Iriye's "The Origins of the Second World War in Asia and the Pacific," both splendid books and classics in the field. Also check out PMH Bell's "The Origins of the Second World War in Europe." More recently, you might want to check out Richard Evans' "The Third Reich in Power," the second of a trilogy of books on Nazi Germany that deals in part with this issue. Likewise, you may want to look at Richard Overy's "The Dictators" and "1939," as well as Gordon Prange's "At Dawn we Slept," and Robert Gellately's "Lenin, Stalin, and Hitler - the Age of Social Catastrophe," - it is more a of a social history of the regimes, but includes key information on the buildup to war as well. Overy's "Russia's War," and John Erikson's "The Road to Stalingrad" show the building to war between Germany and Russia very well. Hope this helps.
Thanks for your terrific comments on good books. Much appreciated. I would be interested in your comments on the development of military tactics as well. Best wishes.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 Thanks for your quick reply. Really enjoyed your reviews, very helpful. Never hand anyone respond so quickly, LOL. Best wishes.... Ax
Nick, thank you. Maybe I can hit Vietnam somewhere down the line, though I'd have to work on that one. I haven't studied Vietnam nearly as much as WWII.
Thanks for another thought provoking video. You mentioned in passing that you thought the turning point in Russia occurred before Stalingrad, I'd be interested to hear what you were referring to. In terms of books I'd mention Niall Ferguson's War of the World. I think he makes a good case for including the Sino-Japanese conflict within the scope of what we call "World War II" which would pre date it by a couple of years or even more if you include Japan's invasion of Manchuria. I don't think its just an academic point. I'm British and throughout my life I can't recall much if any mention that this war was even taking place alongside the far more familiar accounts of what was happening in the Pacific and other theatres where the Allied armies were active.
I agree that the Second Sino-Japanese War probably was the true beginning of the conflict, but events in Europe undoubtedly expanded it into a truly world war. I think Hitler's invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941 was the turning point. Given German brutality right from the start, I don't any realistic way in which Hitler could have won the Russian campaign. The only way such an invasion could have been successful, in my opinion, was if the Germans entered the country as liberators and promised Ukraine and other areas limited autonomy. Such a move would have seen various Soviet peoples rally to the Germans, and perhaps create partisan units behind the Soviet lines instead behind the German lines. I don't think Stalin's regime could have weathered that. However, to suggest that Hitler could have taken this route denies his racism and the logistical needs of the German Army, which required that it live off of the land - steal food and other resources from the conquered Soviet peoples.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Thanks. I've bought the The Second World Wars and How the War was Won and look forward to reading them. I first though have to finish reading Blood and Iron by Katja Hoyer. I addresses a critical gap in my knowledge, German history is very much the poor cousin to American and French history here in the UK and reading it I've realised how little I know. I don't think I'm alone, I'd guess if you asked folks which country USA or Germany was the older many would pick Germany. The seeds of the much of what was to happen in the 20th century seem to have been planted beforehand. The crisis in 1873 which I read about only yesterday is just one example. I won't spam you with questions, so this will be my last. In terms of turning points how would you rate Hitler's declaration of war on the USA post Pearl Harbour? Had he not done so what might have been the effect on USA policy? Would they still have declared war on Germany and, had they done so, still have pursued a Europe first policy?
@@3rdmillenniumfuture607 Sorry for answering with my other channel above. Hitler's declaration of war on the USA was another one of those great "What Ifs" of history. I should point out that I generally don't put too much stock in counterfactuals (despite the fact that I love to read alternate history novels), and I often tell my students questions like this aren't really worth answering in an academic setting because there are just too many variables. Short answer - I think the USA eventually would have been drawn into the European war eventually regardless, particularly with FDR trying to provoke Hitler into some sort of altercation in the Atlantic. My gut feeling is that the USA would have declared war on Germany within a few months of Pearl Harbor, explaining Germany's centrality to the Axis cause to the American people.
Maple Leaf Against the Axis - David J Bercuson The Necessary War - Tim Cook Fight to the Finish - Tim Cook In Peril on the Sea - Donald E. Graves The Regiment - Farley Mowat
Hey Cody... I always have some good thoughts about you, when I find a pretty good WWII book. Last time I went "shopping" I ended up with TORPEDO JUNCTION, a good BIO of the SS, and a book called "IF the Allies had fallen"... fascinating reads... today I was buzzing around Half-Price-Books and dug up some real good selections, though THEY WEREN"T CHEAP!!! My prize pickup was a photo book on THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR... these photos are NOT easy to find... can't believe the book cost $24.00. My second book was VL... a history of the Concentration Camps by Wachsmann. I have two other boring books on the subject, but this one is research gold! The last book I snagged was a memoir of the 507th Tiger Korps... by Helmut Schneider... really great research about how they trained, where they were sent, and all that. ** I was passing by the "Vintage" books... they were selling a hardcover copy of "Mein Kampt" for $220.00!!! It got me to thinking ... IF I was a GI marching around Berlin in 1945... and half a mind to be picking stuff up... I could have collected almost a million dollars worth of reich's flags, helmets, and probably a SIGNED copy of MEIN KAMPF by Hitler himself... weird how hidden fortunes end up in the ruins. ANYWAY.. hope you're well... looking forward to your review of UNDAUNTED STALINGRAD...
Cody, I would add the Queen Of The Flat Tops: The U.S.S. Lexington And The Coral Sea Battle because it is a story written about the folks and their experiences. I know it is a tiny bit of the war, but the story seems so real when you read it. So maybe top 20? I will try to read this list. I have a few already down.
Some other essentials: Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler (Ford translation if you're reading in English) Hellstorm by Thomas Goodrich The Eastern Front by Leon Degrelle
Mein Kampf is not a book on the Second World War. I would recommend students of the Nazi period consider it as it is essential to understanding that horrible regime, but it is nearly impossible to get through as it is largely just stream of consciousness and not well thought out or written. I haven't read Hellstorm, but generally I stay away from self published books on history, as they are not peer reviewed. The Degrelle book appears to be published by an institution that denies the Holocaust, so on that basis I would steer clear.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 Thanks for the response. "Mein Kampf is not a book on the Second World War." True, it was published before the Second World War, but it's essential for understanding the Second World War. "I would recommend students of the Nazi period consider it as it is essential to understanding that horrible regime" Horrible regime? They turned the country around and made it a great success. Probably one of the most advanced countries in the world at the time. "but it is nearly impossible to get through as it is largely just stream of consciousness and not well thought out or written." I disagree, I thought it was a very interesting read, especially the first part which is essentially an autobiography of one of the most famous men in history. I would recommend the Ford translation (which also has many useful footnotes). There's a newer translation called the Dalton translation which is highly regarded but I haven't read that translation myself so I cannot confidently vouch for it. "I haven't read Hellstorm" It's primarily about the fire bombing of Dresden. There's also a documentary that was made about the book, and those events, some years ago by the same name. "The Degrelle book appears to be published by an institution that denies the Holocaust, so on that basis I would steer clear." Those are generally the more honest and trustworthy sources in my experience. If they are willing to be critical and truly examine history and science in such an objective way, trying to base their info as much as possible on hard provable facts, then that's a kind of seal of approval in the sense that they'll just go where ever the evidence leads. As the saying goes; 'The truth fears no investigation' which makes it even more of a shame that many countries have made investigation of the truth illegal. A sad state of affairs indeed.
Neat video, thanks. I don't suppose you could recommend several single volume books that cover the entire WWII?I want to get a good foundation of WWII. Also ,wondering your thoughts about the important of studying WWII and the effects of all US citizens in not knowing not only bout WWII, but about all of history in general. To me, knowing history is important for many reasons including identity, and general intelligence. Thanks.
If you’re looking for good narrative histories of the war, I’d recommend “The Storm of War” by Andrew Roberts and “The Second World War” by Antony Beevor. A knowledge of history provides context for the human experience. It also forces people -modern Americans certainly - to become more humble and grateful for the lives.
Hey Cody - you on Goodreads? care to share your handle if so as I'd love to follow and see your suggestions, reviews, etc. Can always use recommendations considering the sheer volume of books out there on subjects suchs as WW2 and the ACW.
Glad to have another refugee from The Discriminating gamer. Yes, I have thought about alt history books for a list. I love the genre. A few other lists I want to do first, but stay tuned.
@Cody Carlson, Ph.D. thank you for all the great lectures on Nazi Germany. I listened to them while driving to work, they were very informative and enjoyable.
Kind of surprised no love for Adam Tooze's Wages of Destruction. This is imho an absolute eye opener and a definite must. Not an easy read by any means, but worth reading.
Tooze's book is wonderful - an amazing book on the German war economy. However, in listing just ten books, some good ones - even great ones - are simply not going to make the list owning to the sheer volume of works on the subject.
I read a little bit while writing my dissertation, but it wasn't terribly useful for what I was writing. Very interesting, nonetheless. However, that is more primary source material, and in this list I was going for historians' books on the wars. Thank you, sir.
Wow. Lots I l haven't read and will have to add to the list. For me, of the books I've read, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William.L.Shirer best helped me to fathom how the Nazis came to power. And Churchill's memoirs is one of the most fascinating things I've read
Churchill's memoirs are indeed fascinating. I read the abridged version when I was nineteen and it helped me to put a lot of the war into perspective. Still, as with all memoirs, it is quite self-serving. Shirer's books are standard. I'd also recommend Berlin Diary if you have not read that one.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 I agree they are self serving. And as you've noted elsewhere, he really was a superlative writer. Thanks again for the recommendations and looking forward to upcoming videos on the new channel, especially Napoleonic content.
I haven’t read that one. I’m always a little wary of books on this topic that are self published and I can’t find reviews in journals. From what I can tell, it doesn’t appear to be peer reviewed, a big red flag for me.
@@LoveMishra96 Do you mean Churchill’s memoirs of WWII. I read the abridged version when I was nineteen. Really good stuff, but like all memoirs, it’s a bit self-serving. Worth reading, but you need to read books by objective historians to get the full picture.
At 7:05 you mentioned the Japanese Army. I believe you are wrong because Yamashita left Manila with the army. It was an open city until the Japanese Navy (marines) moved back into the city.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 : thank you for what you said. During Yamashita’s defense in his trial, the defense always asked those who survived the atrocities in Manila if they had a star or an anchor. Everyone who testified said an anchor. This is important information because the Japanese army could not control the Japanese navy and vise-a-versa. Another thing mentioned by the defense was once he left Manila, he had no communication with the city. He was in the North Luzon. Communications were almost nonexistent because of the US bombing of the island.
John Mosier: the Blitzkrieg myth, how hitler and the allies misread the strayegic realities of ww2 John Mosier: Deathride the eastern front and the other Cross of Iron the rise and fall of the german war machine. The myth of german villainy by brenton l bradberry and all the books in this books bobligraphy, like radiskys "Stalin", irvings books and patrick buchanans book unessesary war and "roosvelts secret war"
Moiser’s books are good but he’s not a professional historian, neither is Buchanan. I haven’t read Bradberry’s book but it looks like neo-Nazi claptrap.
I found it brilliant but can only urge to read, it has deep truths and many things that are difficult to find, yes its inconvenient history not the convenia model but no lies, also the bibliography has a lot. thanks for the Video list. Cordially
Hello cody, i am a new fan, i loved this video, but i was wondering if i can buy a ww2 book that consists of germans vs soviets in full detail, thank you.
It is indeed by Mawdsley. Been a few years since I read it and I'm certainly not the WW2 scholar that you are, but I found it refreshing. It plausibly challenged a lot of assumptions that have become accepted tropes about the German-Soviet front. Not the most well written history I've ever read, but I felt like I got more out of it than books I read by Beevor, Clark, and Glantz.
Im looking for ..2 world war book Their events ,dates , incendents, each and every timing battled ,amry troops thier losses ? Leaders name? Joining countiry,? Who?, when ,? Join?, landing armies, aircraft, battle ship, tanks battles losses, won, casualties, battles names in history warld war ll..when why , invented,? Causes? Axis groups and allied groups .how many joins , each and every timi period events planns purpose with politically in world war 2..plz if you know about this types of books name plz suggest recommend drop here ..i will checkout
I have a couple new titles to chase now! However, I disagree (almost violently) with 2 of your choices, the Overy and the Kennedy books. Overy's analysis of the U boat war is completely wrong and some of his assessment of the German production priorities is wrong as well. See my second disagreement for details on the Battle of the Atlantic. So far as dedicating resources to the Flak 88 and focusing fighter units on home territories, go, it simply ignores the gross reality that from a manpower perspective the Germans had nothing left to offer against the tide of humanity both the Soviets and the Western Allies could throw against them. When you have to organize women and old men into Volksturm detachments... you're saying you lost. No matter how many Flak 88's they put on the Ostfront there was no way to stop the Soviets short of using an atomic weapon. That's a cold, hard truth. Second, Kennedy. I was insulted from start to finish by every propostition he put forth, but the U boat war is the most egregious example. Has no one else read Clay Blair's two volume account, Hitler's U Boat War? Published in the late 90's, he settles the argument once and for all about the U boats. He did the research and crunched the numbers: 2% of all Allied merchant sailings for the entire war were sunk by Axis forces: surface, air and U boats. 2%. It wasn't even a contest with the outcome possibly in doubt, it was just a delaying action and he makes that point clear time and time again over nearly 1400 pages of main body text. Against that tidal wave of truth, Kennedy cannot be taken seriously.
For the Russian POV Glantz is the best imo - even the Russians tend to agree, but his writing can be very dry which may put newer readers off. If you're just jumping in for the first time he might be a bit overwhelming. He's what you read when you want the 'next level' of detail, Just my opinion though.
Thanks for the recommendations, I’m 20 years old, Im at the age where I’m finally really starting to understand the position of privilege we are in because our ancestors fought so bravely for us. My great grandfather was in Italy during ww2, it’s crazy to think he went all the way from New Zealand to Italy to fight. My nana showed me his dog tags the other day, was both awesome and scary knowing those tags had served in ww2!
Very cool.
Second World War - antony beevor
The most comprehensive and detailed account of world War 2
My father was a WW2 veteran. He passed away a couple years ago. I will be retiring soon an will be able to commit more time to reading. I have read several books on WW2, but not any on this list. A am anxious to get started on it. Thank you.
Thank you. God bless your father.
I have richard overy's book 'why the allies won'. It's my favourite book on the second world war. I will check out some of the other books you recommend. Fun video!
Great book. Thanks.
Thank you so much for all these recommendations!
Thank you.
I really enjoyed the list. Thank you doing the video.
Thank you, sir. I appreciate that.
I'm going to recommend a book. Visions of Victory by Gerhard Weinberg. It gives the ideas of eight of the leaders of both sides of what a post war world would be like assuming they won.
I've read most of the books on your list, but will be picking up Hanson's book on your recommendation. Thanks for your presentation. Dan
Thanks for the recommend and happy to help.
You are missing the Rise and Fall of Third Reich by William L Shirer. It's a masterpiece.
This is a list of books by historians. Shirer was a journalist and a principle who participated in many of the events. While I agree it's a great book, Shirer occasionally gets some (not insignificant things) wrong. For instance, he writes that the Nazis themselves started the Reichstag fire, while the historical consensus is that the fire was the work of a sole arsonist - Marinus va der Lubbe.
I think you are right but it's worth a read. But do keep in mind that the book is huge it has 1294 pages. So you can relax and read it slowly. 😁
@@nitinkanals5087 I agree that it's worth a read - it's a great book. But as I say it's dated.
Yeah probably. 😁 I have it with me.
GREAT BOOK LIST CODY. I HOPE YOU WILL DO MORE.
I intend to. Thank you.
First off: subscribed! I read B. H. Liddell Hart's History of the Second World War in Bahrain, after the cease fire in Desert Storm. I've read A Torch to the Enemy (Fire bombing of Tokyo) and E. B. Sledge's With the Old Breed, but you were right; the toughest book I've personally ever read has been Rampage. With the covid situation, I've found a wonderful thing called Audible. I just finished Ian Tolls Pacific War Trilogy, and I'm going to knock off a couple books on the 1990 Persian Gulf War first (as a participant, I've had no perspective of the overall event. Figured it's about time to start getting that. Road to Safwan & The Fires of Babylon, both inspired by game designer Gregory Smith, who was with The Big Red One there), but then I can start in on the other 9 books on your list. 👍👍 (EDIT: Just purchased The Second World Wars by Victor Davis Hanson)
Thanks. The VDH book is fantastic. A couple of years ago I met briefly with Dennis Showalter after he had a luncheon with some fellow grad students. One student asked him what books he'd assign for a graduate readings course on WWII, and I was delighted that he mentioned two books that I would include on that list - VDH's The Second World Wars and Overy's Why the Allies Won. I read John Keegan's book years ago on the Persian Gulf War - good book but brief. That is a conflict I find fascinating for several reasons and would like to learn more about. In the meantime, more WWII reading for me.
Hey Cody. We've spoken this way before (I'm the "also too" critic!). Anyway, this is the first video I've watched on your new channel. I found it very interesting. I have one criticism here. I realise you are American, and in your mind you are probably speaking to Americans. I am a proud Canadian. In your video you mention Americans, British, and Russians several times. I certainly don't take anything away from any of these nations in the war. However, I find it, at the very least, irritating how often Canada's contribution is entirely disregarded by everyone who isn't Canadian (except for the Dutch).
Canada was Great Britain's most important allie for the first half of the war. Canada was in the war from the beginning, and served on land, sea, and air, and in all theatres. So, where's the love?
Other than that good video :-)
Quite right, sir. I've always admired the Canadian contributions to the war. They fought with bravery and skill throughout the war, and their economic aid and production alone arguably kept Britain in the war before U.S. entry. I suppose I'm used to the Big Three approach to the war, that kind of lumps Canada and the commonwealth in with Britain. That is not a fair thing to do, but it happens. I shall try to make a point of highlighting Canadian contributions when appropriate going forward. Much thanks.
I'm a big fan of Beevor ever since Stalingrad came out 20+ years ago.
Great book.
Years ago I read the Beevor book on Stalingrad and, honestly, the experience was depressing The sheer horror of battle and the utter lack of humanity described was something for which I was not prepared. Since that time I have read much more about the eastern front and I am still amazed at the amount of sacrifice and suffering of all combatants. And, yes, the Beevor book on Stalingrad is very highly recommended.
I enjoyed your video. My favorite book is about the battle of Midway 'Shattered Sword' by John Lundftrum. It covers the prewar period, Japanese doctrine as well as the battle itself.
I’ve heard that’s good, but haven’t read it.
I was surprised and delighted to realize I'd actually read three of these books and have several others on my shelves.
Fantastic!
The only book that I have that’s also on the list is “At Dawn We Slept”.
FWIW here is my list that is not in any particular order
1) “At Dawn We Slept” by Prange, Goldstein, and Dillon
2I “Enemy At The Gates” by William Craig.
3) “Panzer Battles” by F. W. von Mellethin.
4) “History of the Second World War” by Captain B. H. Liddell-Hart
5) “The Rommel Papers” edited by Liddell-Hart
6) “The Battle of Guadalcanal” by BGen Samuel Griffith, USMC
7) “Neither Fear Nor Hope” by von Senger und Etterlin
8) “The Bitter Woods” by John S. D. Eisenhower
9) “Company Commander” by Charles McDonald
10) “Flying Fortress” by Edward Jabsonski
Nearly all of these books were written prior to the revelations of The Ultra Secret. One of my college professors in 1980 predicted that reputations would be affected by the declassification.
Some of my choices might be considered flawed by some. I spent fifteen minutes typing this up. Another 10 minutes thinking on which books to list. I don’t want to spend all evening on it.
And yeah, all of these choices are books I read from twenty to over forty years ago. I read the FLYING FORTRESS for the first time when I was 14.
Good list. I was looking primarily at the historians' take, as opposed to those of actual actors in the conflict, (i.e. Mellethin, Liddell-Hart, MacDonald). I'm thinking of doing another list at some point featuring works by the historical actors. Thanks for sharing.
Someone gave me “Taste of War” by Lizzie Collingham. Didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did, was incredibly eye-opening
I haven't read that one. That is the one about food in WWII right?
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 that’s right. It really gave me a sense of what daily wartime life may have been like for so many different people, military and civilian, as well as putting into perspective the magnitude of some of the logistical and economic challenges the different powers faced.
Love the new channel.
I would throw in a suggestion for World at Arms: A Global History of World War II by Gerhard Weinberg. IMO this is the quintessential history if you want to understand the motivations behind the major strategic and political decisions of the war and their impacts (such as the motivation for dropping the atomic bomb). It's a huge book but well worth the effort.
I've not done a cover to cover on Weinberg, but read several passages. I'll have to sit down and plow through it one of these days.
I agree, Weinbergs, " A World At Arms" is at the top of my list for best single volume comprehensive treatment of WWII. A great read as well
Hi Cody, can I ask you a suggestion for a book that digs into the origins of WWII? the social, economical and political reasons that generated the conflict in Europe?
I started following your bg channel, but this ona has been an amazing surprise. I really appreciate your job! You are great!
Dario
Thank you, sir. You may want to start with A.J.P. Taylor's "The Origins of the Second World War," and and Akira Iriye's "The Origins of the Second World War in Asia and the Pacific," both splendid books and classics in the field. Also check out PMH Bell's "The Origins of the Second World War in Europe." More recently, you might want to check out Richard Evans' "The Third Reich in Power," the second of a trilogy of books on Nazi Germany that deals in part with this issue. Likewise, you may want to look at Richard Overy's "The Dictators" and "1939," as well as Gordon Prange's "At Dawn we Slept," and Robert Gellately's "Lenin, Stalin, and Hitler - the Age of Social Catastrophe," - it is more a of a social history of the regimes, but includes key information on the buildup to war as well. Overy's "Russia's War," and John Erikson's "The Road to Stalingrad" show the building to war between Germany and Russia very well. Hope this helps.
Thanks for your terrific comments on good books. Much appreciated. I would be interested in your comments on the development of military tactics as well. Best wishes.
Thank you. Maybe in a future video I could cover that.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 Thanks for your quick reply. Really enjoyed your reviews, very helpful. Never hand anyone respond so quickly, LOL. Best wishes.... Ax
Very informative reviews, thanks. Moral Combat by Michael Burleigh is excellent. Could you do an Essential Vietnam War list?
Nick, thank you. Maybe I can hit Vietnam somewhere down the line, though I'd have to work on that one. I haven't studied Vietnam nearly as much as WWII.
Thanks for another thought provoking video. You mentioned in passing that you thought the turning point in Russia occurred before Stalingrad, I'd be interested to hear what you were referring to. In terms of books I'd mention Niall Ferguson's War of the World. I think he makes a good case for including the Sino-Japanese conflict within the scope of what we call "World War II" which would pre date it by a couple of years or even more if you include Japan's invasion of Manchuria. I don't think its just an academic point. I'm British and throughout my life I can't recall much if any mention that this war was even taking place alongside the far more familiar accounts of what was happening in the Pacific and other theatres where the Allied armies were active.
I agree that the Second Sino-Japanese War probably was the true beginning of the conflict, but events in Europe undoubtedly expanded it into a truly world war. I think Hitler's invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941 was the turning point. Given German brutality right from the start, I don't any realistic way in which Hitler could have won the Russian campaign. The only way such an invasion could have been successful, in my opinion, was if the Germans entered the country as liberators and promised Ukraine and other areas limited autonomy. Such a move would have seen various Soviet peoples rally to the Germans, and perhaps create partisan units behind the Soviet lines instead behind the German lines. I don't think Stalin's regime could have weathered that. However, to suggest that Hitler could have taken this route denies his racism and the logistical needs of the German Army, which required that it live off of the land - steal food and other resources from the conquered Soviet peoples.
@@TheDiscriminatingGamer Thanks. I've bought the The Second World Wars and How the War was Won and look forward to reading them. I first though have to finish reading Blood and Iron by Katja Hoyer. I addresses a critical gap in my knowledge, German history is very much the poor cousin to American and French history here in the UK and reading it I've realised how little I know. I don't think I'm alone, I'd guess if you asked folks which country USA or Germany was the older many would pick Germany. The seeds of the much of what was to happen in the 20th century seem to have been planted beforehand. The crisis in 1873 which I read about only yesterday is just one example.
I won't spam you with questions, so this will be my last. In terms of turning points how would you rate Hitler's declaration of war on the USA post Pearl Harbour? Had he not done so what might have been the effect on USA policy? Would they still have declared war on Germany and, had they done so, still have pursued a Europe first policy?
@@3rdmillenniumfuture607 Sorry for answering with my other channel above. Hitler's declaration of war on the USA was another one of those great "What Ifs" of history. I should point out that I generally don't put too much stock in counterfactuals (despite the fact that I love to read alternate history novels), and I often tell my students questions like this aren't really worth answering in an academic setting because there are just too many variables. Short answer - I think the USA eventually would have been drawn into the European war eventually regardless, particularly with FDR trying to provoke Hitler into some sort of altercation in the Atlantic. My gut feeling is that the USA would have declared war on Germany within a few months of Pearl Harbor, explaining Germany's centrality to the Axis cause to the American people.
Maple Leaf Against the Axis - David J Bercuson
The Necessary War - Tim Cook
Fight to the Finish - Tim Cook
In Peril on the Sea - Donald E. Graves
The Regiment - Farley Mowat
More I've not read. Thanks.
Great list, I read a lot of WW2 but honestly, I haven't read most of these books.
Thank you. Happy reading!
Hey Cody... I always have some good thoughts about you, when I find a pretty good WWII book. Last time I went "shopping" I ended up with TORPEDO JUNCTION, a good BIO of the SS, and a book called "IF the Allies had fallen"... fascinating reads... today I was buzzing around Half-Price-Books and dug up some real good selections, though THEY WEREN"T CHEAP!!! My prize pickup was a photo book on THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR... these photos are NOT easy to find... can't believe the book cost $24.00. My second book was VL... a history of the Concentration Camps by Wachsmann. I have two other boring books on the subject, but this one is research gold! The last book I snagged was a memoir of the 507th Tiger Korps... by Helmut Schneider... really great research about how they trained, where they were sent, and all that. ** I was passing by the "Vintage" books... they were selling a hardcover copy of "Mein Kampt" for $220.00!!! It got me to thinking ... IF I was a GI marching around Berlin in 1945... and half a mind to be picking stuff up... I could have collected almost a million dollars worth of reich's flags, helmets, and probably a SIGNED copy of MEIN KAMPF by Hitler himself... weird how hidden fortunes end up in the ruins. ANYWAY.. hope you're well... looking forward to your review of UNDAUNTED STALINGRAD...
Thank you, sir. Much appreciated. Happy reading!
What was the good SS bio? Thanks I'm advance!
Cody, I would add the Queen Of The Flat Tops: The U.S.S. Lexington And The Coral Sea Battle because it is a story written about the folks and their experiences. I know it is a tiny bit of the war, but the story seems so real when you read it. So maybe top 20? I will try to read this list. I have a few already down.
Thanks!
Some other essentials:
Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler (Ford translation if you're reading in English)
Hellstorm by Thomas Goodrich
The Eastern Front by Leon Degrelle
Mein Kampf is not a book on the Second World War. I would recommend students of the Nazi period consider it as it is essential to understanding that horrible regime, but it is nearly impossible to get through as it is largely just stream of consciousness and not well thought out or written. I haven't read Hellstorm, but generally I stay away from self published books on history, as they are not peer reviewed. The Degrelle book appears to be published by an institution that denies the Holocaust, so on that basis I would steer clear.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591
Thanks for the response.
"Mein Kampf is not a book on the Second World War."
True, it was published before the Second World War, but it's essential for understanding the Second World War.
"I would recommend students of the Nazi period consider it as it is essential to understanding that horrible regime"
Horrible regime? They turned the country around and made it a great success. Probably one of the most advanced countries in the world at the time.
"but it is nearly impossible to get through as it is largely just stream of consciousness and not well thought out or written."
I disagree, I thought it was a very interesting read, especially the first part which is essentially an autobiography of one of the most famous men in history. I would recommend the Ford translation (which also has many useful footnotes). There's a newer translation called the Dalton translation which is highly regarded but I haven't read that translation myself so I cannot confidently vouch for it.
"I haven't read Hellstorm"
It's primarily about the fire bombing of Dresden. There's also a documentary that was made about the book, and those events, some years ago by the same name.
"The Degrelle book appears to be published by an institution that denies the Holocaust, so on that basis I would steer clear."
Those are generally the more honest and trustworthy sources in my experience. If they are willing to be critical and truly examine history and science in such an objective way, trying to base their info as much as possible on hard provable facts, then that's a kind of seal of approval in the sense that they'll just go where ever the evidence leads. As the saying goes; 'The truth fears no investigation' which makes it even more of a shame that many countries have made investigation of the truth illegal. A sad state of affairs indeed.
Beevor's book on Arnhem was also amazing.
I own that one but haven’t read it yet.
Neat video, thanks. I don't suppose you could recommend several single volume books that cover the entire WWII?I want to get a good foundation of WWII. Also ,wondering your thoughts about the important of studying WWII and the effects of all US citizens in not knowing not only bout WWII, but about all of history in general. To me, knowing history is important for many reasons including identity, and general intelligence. Thanks.
If you’re looking for good narrative histories of the war, I’d recommend “The Storm of War” by Andrew Roberts and “The Second World War” by Antony Beevor. A knowledge of history provides context for the human experience. It also forces people -modern Americans certainly - to become more humble and grateful for the lives.
I read two books I liked on "Anzio" by Martin Blumenson and Lloyd Clark, I liked the Clark book a little more.....
Both great books.
Well done, sir.
Thank you, sir.
Not as key so not "essential" but I found The 900 Days: The Siege of Leningrad tells an incredible story.
I've heard that's a good one.
Hey Cody - you on Goodreads? care to share your handle if so as I'd love to follow and see your suggestions, reviews, etc. Can always use recommendations considering the sheer volume of books out there on subjects suchs as WW2 and the ACW.
I'm afraid I am not on Goodreads. Maybe some day.
Great list!
Thanks!
Have you thought about a 10 aliterate history books on ww2? Like the Harry turtledove series. Just came here from the Rome vs gaul video that went up!
Glad to have another refugee from The Discriminating gamer. Yes, I have thought about alt history books for a list. I love the genre. A few other lists I want to do first, but stay tuned.
There are two Netflix series Greatest Events of WWII in color and WWII Road to Victory you might enjoy
Thank you.
@Cody Carlson, Ph.D. thank you for all the great lectures on Nazi Germany. I listened to them while driving to work, they were very informative and enjoyable.
@@korhankaya6637 Thank you. I’m glad you enjoyed them.
Kind of surprised no love for Adam Tooze's Wages of Destruction. This is imho an absolute eye opener and a definite must. Not an easy read by any means, but worth reading.
Tooze's book is wonderful - an amazing book on the German war economy. However, in listing just ten books, some good ones - even great ones - are simply not going to make the list owning to the sheer volume of works on the subject.
It's essential if you're a die hard addict like I am! Not a book for the casual to pick up. Just finished it this week. 5 stars all the way.
The Best book of II World War, is Icebreaker by Suvorov.
I would disagree with that. I found is argument unconvincing. But to each their own.
Thanks for your list Mr. Carlson. Have you read The Rommel Papers? If so, care to share your thoughts?
I read a little bit while writing my dissertation, but it wasn't terribly useful for what I was writing. Very interesting, nonetheless. However, that is more primary source material, and in this list I was going for historians' books on the wars. Thank you, sir.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 Thank you Dr. Carlson.
Wow. Lots I l haven't read and will have to add to the list. For me, of the books I've read, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William.L.Shirer best helped me to fathom how the Nazis came to power. And Churchill's memoirs is one of the most fascinating things I've read
Churchill's memoirs are indeed fascinating. I read the abridged version when I was nineteen and it helped me to put a lot of the war into perspective. Still, as with all memoirs, it is quite self-serving. Shirer's books are standard. I'd also recommend Berlin Diary if you have not read that one.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 I agree they are self serving. And as you've noted elsewhere, he really was a superlative writer. Thanks again for the recommendations and looking forward to upcoming videos on the new channel, especially Napoleonic content.
@@illegalisasickbird Stay tuned!
ty for this
You are welcome.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 Just ordered At Dawn We Slept and Engineers of Victory :)
@@hairoftehdog Fantastic! I'm sure you'll get a lot out of them.
God, id give anything to live in an area with scenery like that.
Utah has its beautiful spaces, for sure.
Any thoughts on Richard Tedor's 'Hitler's Revolution'?
I haven’t read that one. I’m always a little wary of books on this topic that are self published and I can’t find reviews in journals. From what I can tell, it doesn’t appear to be peer reviewed, a big red flag for me.
Whats your take on Winston Churchil WW2 series?
@@LoveMishra96 Do you mean Churchill’s memoirs of WWII. I read the abridged version when I was nineteen. Really good stuff, but like all memoirs, it’s a bit self-serving. Worth reading, but you need to read books by objective historians to get the full picture.
At 7:05 you mentioned the Japanese Army. I believe you are wrong because Yamashita left Manila with the army. It was an open city until the Japanese Navy (marines) moved back into the city.
Indeed. Thank you.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 : thank you for what you said. During Yamashita’s defense in his trial, the defense always asked those who survived the atrocities in Manila if they had a star or an anchor. Everyone who testified said an anchor. This is important information because the Japanese army could not control the Japanese navy and vise-a-versa. Another thing mentioned by the defense was once he left Manila, he had no communication with the city. He was in the North Luzon. Communications were almost nonexistent because of the US bombing of the island.
@@stephicohu Very interesting. Thank you.
John Mosier: the Blitzkrieg myth, how hitler and the allies misread the strayegic realities of ww2
John Mosier: Deathride the eastern front
and the other Cross of Iron the rise and fall of the german war machine.
The myth of german villainy
by brenton l bradberry
and all the books in this books bobligraphy, like radiskys "Stalin", irvings books and patrick buchanans book unessesary war and "roosvelts secret war"
Moiser’s books are good but he’s not a professional historian, neither is Buchanan. I haven’t read Bradberry’s book but it looks like neo-Nazi claptrap.
I found it brilliant but can only urge to read, it has deep truths and many things that are difficult to find, yes its inconvenient history not the convenia model but no lies, also the bibliography has a lot. thanks for the Video list.
Cordially
I'm looking for some war books for my Kindle.
Hope this vid helps.
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 Yes. I'm going to check out a couple of them.
The second world war by John keegan is a good book to read???
Are you asking me?
Hello cody, i am a new fan, i loved this video, but i was wondering if i can buy a ww2 book that consists of germans vs soviets in full detail, thank you.
Have you seen this video: ua-cam.com/video/SBwqbj-9mxE/v-deo.html
@@codycarlsonph.d.5591 thanks!
What did you think of Thunder in the East?
Is that the Mawdsley book? I've only read parts of it. Is it one I should revisit?
It is indeed by Mawdsley. Been a few years since I read it and I'm certainly not the WW2 scholar that you are, but I found it refreshing. It plausibly challenged a lot of assumptions that have become accepted tropes about the German-Soviet front. Not the most well written history I've ever read, but I felt like I got more out of it than books I read by Beevor, Clark, and Glantz.
@@bergsteiger09 Interesting. Perhaps I'll have to pick that one up again. Thanks!
Enemy at the Gates by Craig is the better Stalingrad book imo
That is a good book.
"Why The Allies Won". Battle of the Atlantic. Won by "British, but also American, sailors..." Hmmm...RCN carried a very big part of that load.
Indeed.
Im looking for ..2 world war book
Their events ,dates , incendents, each and every timing battled ,amry troops thier losses ? Leaders name? Joining countiry,? Who?, when ,? Join?, landing armies, aircraft, battle ship, tanks battles losses, won, casualties, battles names in history warld war ll..when why , invented,? Causes? Axis groups and allied groups .how many joins , each and every timi period events planns purpose with politically in world war 2..plz if you know about this types of books name plz suggest recommend drop here ..i will checkout
Can you recommend a one volume history of WW2? I have a list going, and am thinking it’s between Beevor, Hastings and Gilbert
I really liked Beevor’s book. For my WWII class, I use Andrew Robert’s The Storm of War. Greta book.
I have a couple new titles to chase now! However, I disagree (almost violently) with 2 of your choices, the Overy and the Kennedy books. Overy's analysis of the U boat war is completely wrong and some of his assessment of the German production priorities is wrong as well. See my second disagreement for details on the Battle of the Atlantic. So far as dedicating resources to the Flak 88 and focusing fighter units on home territories, go, it simply ignores the gross reality that from a manpower perspective the Germans had nothing left to offer against the tide of humanity both the Soviets and the Western Allies could throw against them. When you have to organize women and old men into Volksturm detachments... you're saying you lost. No matter how many Flak 88's they put on the Ostfront there was no way to stop the Soviets short of using an atomic weapon. That's a cold, hard truth. Second, Kennedy. I was insulted from start to finish by every propostition he put forth, but the U boat war is the most egregious example. Has no one else read Clay Blair's two volume account, Hitler's U Boat War? Published in the late 90's, he settles the argument once and for all about the U boats. He did the research and crunched the numbers: 2% of all Allied merchant sailings for the entire war were sunk by Axis forces: surface, air and U boats. 2%. It wasn't even a contest with the outcome possibly in doubt, it was just a delaying action and he makes that point clear time and time again over nearly 1400 pages of main body text. Against that tidal wave of truth, Kennedy cannot be taken seriously.
Bringing back Japanese skulls isnt racism. It’s Marines being Marines
Any best WWII book list that doesn't include David Glantz for the east front content is suspect.
For the Russian POV Glantz is the best imo - even the Russians tend to agree, but his writing can be very dry which may put newer readers off. If you're just jumping in for the first time he might be a bit overwhelming. He's what you read when you want the 'next level' of detail, Just my opinion though.