Larson, a neophyte when it comes to British history, falls victim to entrenched English propaganda. (I’m a naturally undemonstrative Englishman, rarely moved by words on a printed page.) Then I realized that, as a Londoner, it was a feeling of overwhelming pride in my poor, brave, battered old city, which stood up to the very worst that Hitler could throw at it for months on end, while still somehow keeping its dignity, cheerfulness, and iron resolve not to surrender. As I read this book, I kept wondering what the swelling of powerful emotion was that I felt, sometimes in an almost physical sense. Larson’s prose-there are 101 chapters in 608 pages-facts are sacrosanct to him.
Larson does fine work in countering many revisionist myths about Churchill. Larson makes excellent use of the diary of Mary Soames. Dry-as-dust historians, often in the Academy, have a great deal to learn from writers such as Larson, who are introducing the public to the splendor and terror of the past in vast numbers without compromising one iota on fact. he hugely best-selling author has once more captured an iconic historical moment and brought it vividly to life in near-novelistic prose, yet without inventing a single thing. It's a more than worthy addition to the long list of books about World War II and a bravura performance by one of America's greatest storytellers. The book reads like a novel, and even though everyone (hopefully) knows how the war ultimately ended, he keeps the reader turning the pages with his gripping prose. There are many things to admire about The Splendid and the Vile, but chief among them is Larson's electric writing. And although he doesn't at all neglect Churchill's actions and policies, he also paints a vivid portrait of the politician's personality.
Many books have been written about Churchill, obviously, but by expanding the scope of his book, Larson provides an even deeper understanding of the legendary politician. While Churchill is clearly the main character, Larson's profiles of his aides and colleagues add valuable context to the prime minister's role in the war. Larson's decision to focus on a wide group of people is a wise one. It's a sprawling, gripping account of Winston Churchill's first year as prime minister of the United Kingdom, and it's nearly impossible to put down. Fans of Larson will be happy to hear that his latest book, The Splendid and the Vile, is no exception. Over his career, he has developed a reputation for being able to write about disparate subjects with intelligence, wit and beautiful prose. There are countless books about World War II, but there's only one Erik Larson.
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