World War II - Nonfiction
"Day of Infamy" by Walter Lord 
This is one of the best books written about the attack on Pearl Harbor. This
book is based on historical documents and the personal accounts of soldiers,
sailors, and civilians; both American and Japanese. The planning behind the
attack by the Japanese high command and the launch and the almost perfect
execution of the attack are described in riveting detail. The observations by
the crewmen on the Japanese war ships and the crews of the attacking aircraft
are educational. Admiral Nagumo, commander of the attacking forces could have
launched a second attack and caused even more destruction, but fortunately for
us, he was over cautious.
There is no attempt to hide the many mistakes made by the American commanders or the missed opportunities to foil the attack or at least blunt the devastating effects. Submarines were spotted and attacked and the incoming aircraft were spotted by radar, but nobody took notice. When the actual attack was under way, many thought if was some sort of drill.
A lot of good men lost their lives and there were
incredible acts of heroism. This book contains many tales of bravery, terror,
and determination. 2403 Americans lost their lives on December 7th, 1941. The
Japanese lost 5 midget submarines, on large submarine, and 29 aircraft with 55
crewmen. It was a small price to pay for such an overwhelming victory, but the
cost to Japan in the long run we all know.
Reviewed by Kenneth S. Smith 30 May 2001
An Owl Book
Henry Holt & Company
115 West 18th Street
New York, NY 10011
www.henryholt.com
