Dresden

Discover the gripping narrative of the bombing of Dresden in the powerful historical account written by bestselling author Sinclair McKay. This compelling book, published by Penguin UK in 2020, delves into the harrowing events of February 1945 when the Allies devastated the city known as the 'Florence of the Elbe'. As explosive bombs weighing over 1,000 lbs fell relentlessly, an estimated 25,000 lives were lost. This title presents a meticulous minute-by-minute description of the tragic night, showcasing the massive flames and intense heat that forever marked Dresden's history.

McKay’s work not only examines the military strategy behind the attack but also the personal stories of resilience and tragedy. With in-depth research, including never-before-seen accounts, he portrays the experiences of civilians caught in the chaos, like the Jewish woman who mistook the bombs for divine intervention and novelist Kurt Vonnegut who compared the destruction to the moon’s surface. The narrative also follows 15-year-old Winfried Bielss as he tries to return home, unaware of the catastrophe awaiting him.

Dresden is more than just a recounting of historical facts; it’s a reminder of humanity amidst the horrors of war. This beautifully produced B-format paperback, with its 400 pages of riveting content, is essential for history buffs and anyone interested in World War II’s profound impact. Add this remarkable volume to your collection today and explore the dark yet fascinating chapters of history. This product features FREE shipping, but please note that combined shipping for other items is not available with this particular book. Allow up to 10 days for delivery.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780241986011
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2020
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 400


Description:
In February 1945 the Allies obliterated Dresden, the 'Florence of the Elbe'. Explosive bombs weighing over 1,000 lbs fell every seven and a half seconds and an estimated 25,000 people were killed. Was Dresden a legitimate military target or was the bombing a last act of atavistic mass murder in a war already won?

From the history of the city to the attack itself, conveyed in a minute-by-minute account from the first of the flares to the flames reaching almost a mile high - the wind so searingly hot that the lungs of those in its path were instantly scorched - through the eerie period of reconstruction, bestselling author Sinclair McKay creates a vast canvas and brings it alive with touching human detail.

Along the way we encounter, for example, a Jewish woman who thought the English bombs had been sent from heaven, novelist Kurt Vonnegut who wrote that the smouldering landscape was like walking on the surface of the moon, and 15-year-old Winfried Bielss, who, having spent the evening ushering refugees, wanted to get home to his stamp collection. He was not to know that there was not enough time.

Impeccably researched and deeply moving, McKay uses never-before-seen sources to relate the untold stories of civilians and the military. This is a master historian at work.

This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.