The Boys’ Crusade is the great historian Paul Fussell’s unflinching and unforgettable account of the American infantryman’s experiences in Europe during World War II. Based in part on the author’s own experiences; it provides a stirring narrative of what the war was actually like; from the point of view of the children—for children they were—who fought it. While dealing definitively with issues of strategy; leadership; context; and tactics; Fussell has an additional purpose: to tear away the veil of feel-good mythology that so often obscures and sanitizes war’s brutal essence. “A chronicle should deal with nothing but the truth;†Fussell writes in his Preface. Accord-ingly; he eschews every kind of sentimentalism; focusing instead on the raw action and human emotion triggered by the intimacy; horror; and intense sorrows of war; and honestly addressing the errors; waste; fear; misery; and resentments that plagued both sides. In the vast literature on World War II; The Boys’ Crusade stands wholly apart. Fussell’s profoundly honest portrayal of these boy soldiers underscores their bravery even as it deepens our awareness of their experiences. This book is both a tribute to their noble service and a valuable lesson for future generations.From the Hardcover edition.
#1975312 in Books 1999-01-04Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 1.15 x 6.33 x 9.28l; 1.71 #File Name: 0812693116440 pages
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. The Price Paid for SlaveryBy KschimmelwriterAnyone who would like a history book that goes beyond the typical textbook "North good; South bad" should have this book in their nineteenth century history collection. Hummel considers secession; slavery; economics; and the possible alternatives to war in this balanced approach to understanding a divided nation as well as the divisions within the divided nation.As our nation is perhaps far more divided than ever; in more ways than ever; this book is just as relevant as it has ever been.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. An Economist Adds His Research to the Subject of SlaveryBy CustomerThis is a serious; scholarly work on the economics of slavery and the tremendous cost of emancipation. It is not an emotional or moralistic view. If you are looking for that book; this is not for you. It is broken into 2 parts for each chapter: a regular written chapter for each topic; and the highly useful written bibliography; chock full of terrific; scholarly research and resources for further study. It is a volume that belongs in the serious library of anyone studying the Civil War; Reconstruction and/or Slavery in North America. The author is an economist so he delivers a new eye on the subject that is unusual; and prompted me to buy the book originally many years ago. My first copy is so highlighted and written in that I ordered an extra copy one for my kindle for quick reference while reading. Highly recommended for serious readers only.5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. No Chattel Slavery; Yes Political SlaveryBy Book "Booker" LookerHummel has written a book that I feel is more balanced and detailed than either of DiLorenzo's ventures into the topic. I was pleased that much of the historicity of the book was corroborated by what I had read in high school and so the book was for me a refresher on this era in American history. Hummel discusses in-depth the ways in which secession would have undermined slavery and frequently brings up specific entries from many different historical figures to give an accurate and complete picture of the Civil War and the ensuing Reconstruction. I strongly recommend reading this book if possible.One more thing I was pleased with reading this book: the author is much more detached from the events; rarely approaching the scorn and indignation with which DiLorenzo approaches the topic (if at all). Not to throw DiLorenzo under the bus; but I feel his books are a little misleading at times.
