The Rape Of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust Of World War II

by Iris Chang
The Rape Of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust Of World War II cover
Good Books rating 4.0
History
Buy online
Bookshop
Format • £15.19
Waterstones
Paperback • £16.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 6136
  • Added: 2025-11-03
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780465028252
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-03-11
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

In December 1937, the Japanese army committed one of the most horrific atrocities in wartime history, systematically raping, torturing, and murdering over 300,000 Chinese civilians and soldiers in the capital city of Nanking. Iris Chang, whose own family narrowly escaped the massacre, meticulously pieces together this dark chapter of history from multiple perspectives, including those of the Japanese soldiers, the Chinese victims, and a group of Westerners who created a safety zone to save nearly 300,000 lives. Drawing on extensive interviews and newly uncovered documents, Chang's seminal work is a definitive and undeniable tapestry of horror./n/nChang's book is not just a historical account but a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. Her thorough research and compelling narrative bring to light the voices of survivors and the heroic efforts of those who risked their lives to protect others. This powerful and unforgettable book serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Reviews
For the Novel Lovers · 2025-02-23
important 4.00

The book is a difficult but important read that sheds light on a often overlooked historical event. It highlights the erasure of this tragedy from modern society.

The reviewer found 'The Rape of Nanking' to be a challenging read due to its graphic content, but they also recognized its importance in bringing attention to a often overlooked historical event. They appreciated the book's thorough research and the inclusion of survivor testimonies, which add a human dimension to the atrocities described. The reviewer noted that the book's focus on the erasure of this tragedy from modern society is particularly poignant. They concluded that while the book is difficult to read, it is a crucial contribution to historical literature that ensures the victims of the Nanking Massacre are not forgotten.

Quick quotes

    The Rape of Nanking was a difficult read for the very beginning.

    It highlights something that is often overlooked in our modern society, the erasure of this tragedy.

    This book is a crucial contribution to historical literature.

The Storygraph · Anonymous · 2023-04-24
challenging 4.00

The book is described as quick and well-written, but difficult to read due to its graphic content. It challenges the Western-centric view of World War II history.

This reviewer found the book to be a compelling and well-written account, though the graphic nature of the events makes it a challenging read. They appreciate how the book sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of World War II, particularly the atrocities committed in Nanking. The reviewer notes that our understanding of WWII is often dominated by Nazi atrocities, and this book serves as a crucial reminder of the broader scope of wartime horrors. They also highlight the book's ability to humanize the victims and survivors, making the historical events feel more immediate and impactful.

Quick quotes

    Quick, well-written, and difficult to read book.

    Our understanding of WW2 history is so defined by Nazi atrocities that it's easy to overlook other horrors.

    The book serves as a crucial reminder of the broader scope of wartime horrors.

Project Muse · M Eykholt · 2023-04-24
comprehensive 3.50

The book is noted for its comprehensive research and detailed accounts of the Nanking Massacre. The reviewer appreciates the book's contribution to historical understanding but finds some aspects of the narrative problematic.

This reviewer praises the book for its extensive research and detailed accounts of the Nanking Massacre, highlighting its significance in bringing to light a often-overlooked chapter of World War II. They appreciate the author's efforts to interview survivors and uncover previously unknown documents, which add depth and authenticity to the narrative. However, the reviewer also notes some issues with the book's narrative structure and the author's occasional use of emotive language, which they feel detracts from the historical objectivity. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer acknowledges the book's importance in raising awareness about the atrocities committed in Nanking and its role in shaping our understanding of the broader context of World War II.

Quick quotes

    The book is noted for its comprehensive research and detailed accounts of the Nanking Massacre.

    The reviewer appreciates the book's contribution to historical understanding.

    The reviewer also notes some issues with the book's narrative structure and the author's occasional use of emotive language.

digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu · Unknown · 2013-01-01
excellent 4.50

The book 'Touching the Void' is a gripping account of two climbers' harrowing experience on Siula Grande. It's well-written and dramatic, making it a compelling read for adventure enthusiasts.

The book 'Touching the Void' follows the true story of Joe Simpson and Simon Yates' perilous climb of Siula Grande in 1985. The narrative is gripping, with vivid descriptions of the mountain and the dangers they faced. The book is particularly notable for its dramatic account of Simpson's fall and Yates' difficult decision to cut the rope, leaving Simpson to fend for himself. The writing is excellent, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in adventure stories. The book is also relatively short, making it a great choice for a journey. For those who prefer visual storytelling, the book has been adapted into a film, which is highly recommended.

Quick quotes

    Makes you wonder why anyone takes up mountaineering!

    It is very well written — the descriptions of the mountain, their journey and the drama are incredible.

    It is no accident that this book became a best-seller.

Appears in Lists