The epic story of the vastly outnumbered platoon that stopped Germany’s leading assault in the Ardennes forest and prevented Hitler’s most fearsome tanks from overtaking American positions.
His only realistic hope of survival was to order his own artillery to fire on his positions to stall the German attack. Some of his own men might be killed, but “pulling the chain,” as it was called, was his only option.
Alex Kershaw’s The Longest Winter is a gripping and visceral account of the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most pivotal and brutal battles of World War II. Kershaw eschews a purely strategic overview, instead focusing on the experiences of individual soldiers on the front lines, bringing the harrowing realities of combat to vivid life.
Strengths
- Human Focus: Kershaw’s greatest strength lies in his ability to personalize the war. By interweaving the stories of numerous soldiers – from seasoned officers to green recruits – he creates a deeply affecting narrative. We see their bravery, their fear, their resilience, and their suffering in stark detail. This approach makes the battle feel immediate and powerfully relevant.
- Engaging Narrative: The book is written in a compelling, almost novelistic style. Kershaw masterfully builds suspense and drama, drawing the reader into the chaos and uncertainty of the battle. The pacing is generally excellent, keeping the reader invested despite the sheer scale and complexity of the events.
- Detailed Research: The book is clearly based on extensive research, including interviews with veterans and a thorough examination of archival materials. Kershaw seamlessly integrates historical context without overwhelming the reader with dry facts.
- Emphasis on the “Cruel Season”: The book doesn’t shy away from the horrors of the winter conditions. Kershaw paints a brutal picture of the extreme cold, the deep snow, and the constant struggle against the elements, which added another layer of hardship to an already devastating battle. This focus is critical to understanding the context of the battle and the suffering of the soliders.
Weaknesses
- Potentially Overwhelming Number of Perspectives: While the focus on individual stories is a strength, the sheer number of characters introduced can sometimes be confusing. It can be challenging to keep track of everyone, especially in the early chapters. A dramatis personae might have been helpful.
- Limited Strategic Analysis: While Kershaw excels at portraying the individual experience, the book could benefit from a more in-depth analysis of the strategic decisions made by both sides. Some readers might find the focus on the ground level comes at the expense of a broader understanding of the battle’s overall context.
- Sentimentality: At times, Kershaw’s writing leans towards the sentimental, which, while understandable given the subject matter, can occasionally feel a bit heavy-handed.
Overall, The Longest Winter is a powerful and unforgettable account of the Battle of the Bulge. While it may not be the definitive strategic history of the battle, it is a deeply moving and humanizing portrait of the soldiers who fought and endured one of the most crucial and brutal campaigns of World War II. It’s a highly recommended read for anyone interested in military history, particularly those seeking a visceral and personal understanding of the war. Despite some potential minor flaws, the author’s mastery of narrative and detailed research make it a compelling and important work.