The Ultimate Illustrated History of World War II

Donald Sommerville, The Ultimate Illustrated History of World War II: An Authoritative Account of One of the Deadliest Conflicts in Human History with Analysis of Decisive Encounters and Landmark Engagements. London: Hermes House, 2010.

Large format (30 x 23 cm), laminated card wraps with blurb flaps, 256 pages, admirably illustrated.

In very good condition.

'The tendencies of World War I were taken to extremes in World War II. The processes of war production and supply, the mobilization of civilian populations, the role played by intelligence, and the types of weapons employed all underwent new levels of advancement and specialization. Not least, the shift towards the mechanization of mass killing had widescale repercussions that still reverberate today. 

'This book provides a detailed account of the history of World War II. From the aftermath of World War I and the rapid advance of Nazi forces across Europe, to Operation Barbarossa, the battles in North Africa and the war in the Pacific, the global scope of the war is comprehensively explored. Key engagements are discussed alongside detailed maps and battle plans to show how the conflict progressed. 

'Special features dedicated to weaponry cover the key machinery and tactics with which the war was waged. Fact boxes give battle outcomes and weapon statistics at a glance, and also provide a close-up view of the important political and military leaders. 

'The brutal history and sheer scope of World War II are vividly potrayed in this intelligent and wide-ranging account of the conflict, which is illustrated with more than 500 photographs, battle plans and maps. Presented in an accessible style, it is perfect for both the general and specialist reader.'