Retribution by Max Hastings

In 'Retribution,' Max Hastings masterfully recounts the pivotal moments of World War II in the East, from the summer of 1944 to Japan's ultimate defeat. The book vividly portrays the massive clashes between army, air, and naval forces across Asia, offering a compelling narrative of the war's final chapters. Hastings draws incisive portraits of major historical figures such as MacArthur, Mao, Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin, providing deep insights into their roles and decisions. Equally compelling are his portrayals of the ordinary soldiers and sailors who were caught in the bloodiest of campaigns, bringing a human dimension to the larger historical events. /n/n With its piercing analysis and masterful storytelling, 'Retribution' is a brilliant exploration of an epic conflict. Hastings, at the height of his powers as a military historian, delivers a narrative that is both informative and deeply engaging, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of World War II.

Reviews

HistoryNet · John C. McManus · 2018-08-02

riveting 4.25

The author admires the courage of the American soldiers but also critiques the numerous enemy casualties. The book is praised for its vivid and detailed account of the final year of World War II in the Pacific.

John C. McManus commends Max Hastings for his vivid and detailed account of the final year of World War II in the Pacific. The reviewer highlights Hastings' admiration for the courage of American soldiers, particularly those who assaulted Japanese strongholds like Iwo Jima and Okinawa. McManus also notes Hastings' critique of the high number of enemy casualties, providing a balanced perspective on the conflict. The reviewer finds the book to be a riveting and well-informed chronicle, offering valuable insights into the complexities of war. The detailed personal accounts and strategic analysis make it a compelling read for history enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

The author admires the courage of the Americans who assaulted Japanese strongholds like Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

The book is praised for its vivid and detailed account of the final year of World War II in the Pacific.

Hastings provides a balanced perspective on the conflict, highlighting both the courage of American soldiers and the high number of enemy casualties.

Commentary Magazine · Algis Valiunas · 2008-09-01

insightful 3.75

The book offers a nuanced perspective on America's reluctance to engage in war despite its initial enthusiasm for vengeance. It provides a detailed and insightful account of the final year of World War II in the Pacific.

Algis Valiunas delves into Max Hastings' exploration of America's complex relationship with war, highlighting the nation's initial fervor for retribution and subsequent disillusionment. The reviewer appreciates Hastings' thorough research and his ability to present a balanced view of the conflict. Valiunas notes that the book is particularly strong in its depiction of the personal experiences of soldiers, providing a human dimension to the historical narrative. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling and enlightening read, offering valuable insights into the final year of World War II.

Quick quotes

Never really prepared for war, America has always hated the thought of going to war.

The book provides a detailed and insightful account of the final year of World War II in the Pacific.

Hastings' thorough research and balanced view make this a compelling and enlightening read.

The New York Times · Richard Bernstein · 2008-03-30

harrowing 4.00

The book vividly contrasts the brutality of the Japanese military with the relentless determination of the American forces. It provides a stark and unflinching look at the final year of World War II in the Pacific.

Richard Bernstein highlights how Max Hastings masterfully balances the strategic decisions of commanders with the harrowing experiences of soldiers on the ground. The book is a powerful exploration of the human cost of war, showcasing the resilience and suffering of those involved. Bernstein praises Hastings' ability to weave together personal accounts and historical analysis, creating a compelling narrative that is both informative and deeply moving. The reviewer notes that Hastings does not shy away from the brutal realities of combat, making it a gripping and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

Hastings shows how Japanese madness met American ruthlessness in the final year of World War II.

The book is a powerful exploration of the human cost of war.

Hastings masterfully balances the strategic decisions of commanders with the harrowing experiences of soldiers on the ground.

Appears in Lists

100 Best Military History Books of All Time