Helpful Score: 3
It was very interesting to hear so many veterans' stories about their time in WW II. For so many years there was nothing said. I think now the current generation is interested and the past generation is willing to talk about how they conquered those difficult days in their lives. Along with the veterans, are stories of the wives they left behind, the minority groups (women, blacks, Indian and Japanese) struggles and even some famous people who served in the war.
Helpful Score: 3
Excellent book, covers many different perspectives fairly. At the time it came out, it was a good reminder of the WWII generation. It stands next to Studs Terkel's "The Good War," and is a must-read for fans of history. It's quite a bit shorter than Terkel's book, for those who are not looking for a massive oral history lesson.
Helpful Score: 3
I started to read this book once when I checked it out of the library. Well, I just had to have one for myself to keep. I want my children and grandchildren to read it also. It is about different people of that generation of my parents time. My Father served in WWII. Today's generation needs to take a look back and learn.
Helpful Score: 2
"The Greatest Generation" by Tom Brokaw may have been the most heart-felt book I have read. A collection of mini-biographies of World War II veterans, sometimes their families, and some 'homefront heros' as well. Easy to read. Full of history but with focus on the individuals rather than the events. Brokaw writes with a simple yet poignant style, unfolding the lives and experiences of these extraordinary people with dignity, honor and humility. I rarely got through 15 minutes of reading without having to pause, reflect, and dry some tears. Powerful! [5/5]
Helpful Score: 1
My teenage son listened to the audio of this, and now keeps the book by his bed for repeated reading. Each chapter is the story of a different person, couple or group. Some we've never heard of, and some are well known figures in our culture. I'm recommending this book to homeschool friends who are studying World War 2. This is a great dip into the life & times of the WW2 generation. This book gives us one last chance to embrace them while many of them are still here to appreciate it.
