The Navy Times Book of Submarines: A Political, Social, and Military History

by Brayton Harris, Walter J. Boyne (Editor)

Shattering long-held myths and misunderstandings, author Brayton Harris traces the development of the submarine through an era in which writers of fiction saw the merits better than most professionals-until the Germans almost won World War I. He covers the professional and political arrogance that delayed antisubmarine development for so long that German submarines almost won World War II as well, and examines post-war progress toward the truly awesome submarine of today.

Along the way, Harris explores the shifting moral issues of "unrestricted" naval warfare, outlines the hundred-year search for an effective underwater power plant that culminated in the nuclear reactor, and raises important questions about the future. A fascinating exploration of the steps and stumbles during development, a rousing tribute to those who fought and died, and a powerful study of the submarine's impact on America, The Navy Times Book of Submarines is an unparalleled source for understanding the great "hunters of the deep.

Genres: History

Paperback

First published December 1, 1997

Reviews

[Michael Grizer (He-Him) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book. Captivating. I could barely put it down. I love his writing style and will definitely look to see if he has written anything else. Great history of submarines that ends in the mid-90s, just about the time I ended my involvement with submarines by taking a job in Germany. Makes me want to go back and work in the shipyard again.

['Aussie Rick' · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read nearly every decent book you can get on U-boats and submarine warfare during WWI and WWII. This new book is one of the better books that offers you a more complete understanding of their historical background and role. Most people know about the U-boats and the terrible campaign they waged against Merchant shipping during both World Wars but who knows about the very early submarines, their sometimes unfortunate crews and their inventors.

This was a great story and I was unsure if I would find the history behind the submarine as interesting as its role in naval warfare but I did. The author tells a great story that never gets boring and keeps you reading page after page with interesting bits of information and first hand accounts of those involved. I found this book easy to read and it was a joy to lay back and read a few pages each night.

[Matt · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bag of meh. Author was a bit arrogant in that he seemed to delight in correcting other authors. Discussion was not balanced. Too much information going all the way back to the middle ages, it seemed like. More emphasis should have been placed on the Cold War. Not much social discussion. Military discussion was ok as with political. An ok read on sub history, but there are better ones out there.

[Justus · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice historical overview about submarines till about the mid 90's. A nice clean book about an interesting subject. The writing isn't great or anything -- it is just an overview/summary, but it seems like a good one (although I'm no expert).

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great overview of submarines

[gargamelscat · Rating 4 out of 5]

7/10

A good overview, particularly up through WW1. However I would have liked to see more technical detail.

[Scott Wade · Rating 4 out of 5]

At sea