The Splendid and the Vile

by Erik Larson
The Splendid and the Vile cover
Good Books rating 3.83
History
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 3127
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780385348713
  • Publisher: Crown
  • Published: 2020-02-25
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson offers an intimate look at Winston Churchill's leadership during the Blitz, a period marked by relentless bombing and political brinkmanship. Through diaries, archival documents, and once-secret intelligence reports, Larson paints a vivid picture of Churchill's daily life, his interactions with his family, and his strategic maneuvers to keep Britain standing. The book delves into the personal and political challenges faced by Churchill and his inner circle, providing a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history. /n/n This narrative not only highlights Churchill's eloquence and courage but also showcases his ability to inspire and unite a nation in the face of unimaginable horror. Set against the backdrop of iconic locations like Chequers and 10 Downing Street, the book offers a detailed and engaging account of how Churchill's leadership shaped the course of World War II.

Reviews
Reddit - Recommended Books · 2024-10-13
engaging 4.00

The book is loved for its gripping portrayal of life during the Blitz and Churchill's leadership. It reminds readers why they enjoy Larson's work.

This Reddit discussion highlights the book's ability to grip readers with its vivid portrayal of life during the Blitz and Churchill's leadership. Many users express their love for Larson's writing style and how this book reminds them why they enjoy his work. They appreciate the detailed and engaging narrative that brings history to life. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with readers finding the book both informative and entertaining.

Quick quotes

    I just finished it. I loved it. While I read the Splendid and the Vile it reminded me of how much I loved him as an author.

    A startling, gripping portrait of what it was like to be alive in Britain during the Blitz, and what it was like to be around Churchill.

    Inviting the reader into top-secret meetings within the cabinet war rooms, Larson shows us how the British Bulldog deftly emboldened a small nation to embrace ...

Howard Blum · Howard Blum · 2020-03-23
insightful 4.50

This book is both compelling and important, offering lessons that are relevant even today. It provides a vivid portrait of life in Britain during the Blitz.

Howard Blum praises The Splendid and the Vile as a compelling and important read, emphasizing its relevance to contemporary times. They highlight how the book vividly portrays life in Britain during the Blitz and offers valuable lessons that resonate today. Blum appreciates Larson's ability to bring history to life, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. They suggest that the book is not just a historical account but also a timely reminder of resilience and leadership in the face of adversity.

Quick quotes

    The Splendid and the Vile is not just a compelling read, it's also an important book, a lesson to be taken to heart in these dispiriting and ...

    It is surprisingly relevant for these times.

    Erik Larson's The Splendid and the Vile has nothing to do with viruses or pandemics.

Washington Independent Review of Books · 2020-02-19
informative 3.00

The book is rich in historical detail but lacks dramatic tension. It offers a comprehensive look at Churchill's leadership during the Blitz but may feel dry to some readers.

This review highlights the book's extensive historical detail, which provides a thorough understanding of Churchill's leadership during the Blitz. However, the reviewer notes that the narrative can feel heavy and lacks the dramatic tension that might keep readers on the edge of their seats. They appreciate the depth of research but suggest that the book might be more suited to history enthusiasts who enjoy detailed accounts over fast-paced storytelling. The reviewer also points out that while the book is informative, it may not be as engaging for those looking for a more thrilling read.

Quick quotes

    Though heavy on historical detail, this WWII chronicle is far too light on drama.

    The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz

    The book is what's been said of Larson's earlier works: “addictively readable.”

Appears in Lists