About this book
Antony Beevor's single-volume history sets out to cover the entire Second World War, from the conflict in East Asia that preceded the European war to the surrender of Japan in 1945. It moves across every major theatre: the invasion of Poland, the fall of France, the Eastern Front, North Africa, the Atlantic, the Pacific and the final campaigns into Germany.
Beevor balances high command with the human scale. Decisions by leaders and generals sit alongside the experiences of soldiers, civilians, prisoners and refugees, so the reader never loses sight of what the war cost. He gives proper weight to the war in China and to the Eastern Front, which many Western accounts treat only briefly.
What makes the book valuable is its range combined with a strong narrative drive. It is an ideal backbone for anyone who wants to understand how the different parts of the war connected, and it leads naturally into Beevor's deeper study, Stalingrad, or to the wider World Wars shelf.
Who it’s for
A strong choice for readers who want one comprehensive book on the war; long and detailed, but steadily paced and accessible to non-specialists.
Editions vary by publisher and format. Check the retailer’s listing for the edition, translation and format before you buy.