While traveling this week, I picked up a copy of Rick Atkinson’s An Army at Dawn and have really been enjoying it. The book, winner of the Pulitzer Price for History, describes the history of the war in North Africa in 1942-43. I saw Atkinson interviewed by CNBC’s Jim Cramer on Monday — and went out and got the book. It’s full of fascinating perspectives — including some great commentary on the early years of Eisenhower and Patton as generals. There’s also available an excellent web site supporting the book. The book is the first of three volumes Atkinson plans for covering World War II in Europe. Highly recommended.
Also on my nightstand is Gettysburg by Stephen Sears. This latest comprehensive history of the big Civil War battle has gotten some great reviews. I’m only a chapter or two into it so far — and will definitely pick it back up when I’m finished with Atkinson’s book.