Fighting the Desert Fox: Rommel's Campaigns in North Africa April 1941 to August 1942

by John Delaney

Skillful and daring, dynamic and aggressive and tactically brilliant, Field Marshal Erwin Rommel--the Desert Fox--nearly defeated the Allies during 15 months of intense fighting on the North African front. Until Rommel's arrival, the poorly commanded Italian troops stationed there posed little threat--but afterwards, it took a long time and a nearly endless succession of Allied leaders to cope with this new presence. Soldiers from many countries paid for these mistakes with their lives. Over 200 photographs from the archives, and in-depth coverage of British and German tactics and personnel, provide an unprecedented and unique record of one of World War Two's fiercest confrontations. 160 pages, 200 b/w illus., 8 1/2 x 11.

Genres: Military Fiction

155 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1998

Reviews

[Erik · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another fine book ruined because of the lack of references... sigh. Ok, maybe I shouldn't open with that line, but it is true. Truly a 4 Star book reduced to a 3 Star with the failings of not putting in the effort to provide references. Now to be fair, Delaney does provide Imperial War Museum ID numbers for the numerous photos and opens the book thanking them for their assistance. I feel that this is insufficient for a true history book however, so I'm a harsh judge.

On the bright side, the book is a very enjoyable read and is literally filled with those IWM photos providing a significant amount a flavor for the text. The accounts seem pretty well balanced overall, with the author even reminding the readers that some of the stereotypes (Italians in particular) were blatant propaganda and false. I think most of us know that already, but it was nice to see so clearly stated in the text.

This short book does a very passable job covering the desert warfare through 1942, and I'd recommend it for a good beginner book on the Allies fighting against the Axis in North Africa. A shame the lack of real references holds back the educational value of the book in my opinion.

Overall, I'd say this was a good solid 4 Star book doomed to 3 Stars for the reference failure. A worthwhile read nonetheless. 3 Stars

[Michael Romo · Rating 4 out of 5]

The richly illustrated account of Rommel’s campaigns in North Africa from April 1941 to August 1942. One cannot but imagine what Rommel could’ve done with another Panzer division at his disposal or even a few breaks in as bleak logistical situation!