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War in the Far East #2
Japan Runs Wild, 1942–1943
The author of Storm Clouds Over the Pacific, 1931-1941 chronicles Japan's dramatic reversal of fortune as Allied forces gained advantage during WWII.
In early 1942, the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy were advancing on all fronts, humiliating Allied forces throughout the Pacific. In a matter of months, Japan had conquered an area larger than Hitler's empire at its apex. Hawaiians and Australians feared a future under Hirohito. The fate of half of mankind was hanging in the balance.
But by the end of 1943, the tables had turned entirely. The American-led military machine had kicked into gear, and the Japanese were fighting a defensive battle along a frontline that crossed thousands of miles of land and sea. In Japan Runs Wild, 1942-1943, historian Peter Harmsen details the astonishing transformation that took place in that period, setting the Allies on a path to ultimate victory over Japan.
The second installment of Peter Harmsen's three-part history, Japan Runs Wild, 1942-1943 continues his comprehensive chronicle of the Pacific Theater during the Second World War. Giving due emphasis to the Japanese-American struggle, Harmsen also sheds light on the other peoples involved, including the British, Australians, Soviets, Filipinos, Indians, and Koreans. Above all, the central importance of China is highlighted in a way that no previous general history of the war against Japan has achieved.
In early 1942, the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy were advancing on all fronts, humiliating Allied forces throughout the Pacific. In a matter of months, Japan had conquered an area larger than Hitler's empire at its apex. Hawaiians and Australians feared a future under Hirohito. The fate of half of mankind was hanging in the balance.
But by the end of 1943, the tables had turned entirely. The American-led military machine had kicked into gear, and the Japanese were fighting a defensive battle along a frontline that crossed thousands of miles of land and sea. In Japan Runs Wild, 1942-1943, historian Peter Harmsen details the astonishing transformation that took place in that period, setting the Allies on a path to ultimate victory over Japan.
The second installment of Peter Harmsen's three-part history, Japan Runs Wild, 1942-1943 continues his comprehensive chronicle of the Pacific Theater during the Second World War. Giving due emphasis to the Japanese-American struggle, Harmsen also sheds light on the other peoples involved, including the British, Australians, Soviets, Filipinos, Indians, and Koreans. Above all, the central importance of China is highlighted in a way that no previous general history of the war against Japan has achieved.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 4, 2021
Between 2.5 and 3 stars. A rather superficial look at the period with material mostly covered in other books. Not too impressive.
September 25, 2020
A solid second entry in a trilogy on the Pacific War.
[Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by the author on the condition that I would publish a review of it]
This is a good, if somewhat scattered work. Unlike the first part of Harmsen's trilogy, Storm Clouds over the Pacific, 1931–41, which was able to focus almost exclusively on the Sino-Japanese clash which began with the invasion of Manchuria in 1931, this second entry was always going to have the tough task of swapping rapidly between the various post-Pearl Harbor theaters of conflict (Malaya, the Philippines, Burma, China, the Solomons, etc.) while still retaining a coherent focus.
The results, I believe, are mixed. On the positive side, Harmsen again makes use of a wide range of scholarly secondary literature to tell his story, and while the photographs are perhaps not as novel a collection as they were in the first volume, they still make for an interesting visual record of the conflict. Many of the anecdotes which he chooses to highlight aspects of the war are also well told. Harmsen's account of the fate of the Italian soldiers left in China and the Pacific after Mussolini's deposing in 1943 (pp. 142-143), for example, is probably not a tale many average readers of the Pacific War are familiar with. However, as some critics noted in reviews of Part I, there is a certain practicability to the narrative which will not shock many experienced readers nor will shake the more traditional narratives of the Pacific War. The book opens, for example, with the famous story of the British Battleships Repulse and Prince of Wales, sunk off the coast of Malaya in their doomed attempt to stop the Japanese landings in the colony at the start of hostilities; interesting as usual, but obviously not a revelation.
However, I still believe readers should be careful about trying to judge the book on what they think it "ought" to be rather than obviously is. Harmsen's (apparent) purpose with this trilogy was to offer a readable account of the totality of the war -- from Burma to Ironbottom Sound -- without turning it into what typically emerges in popular accounts as an American-centrist narrative of island hopping and carrier battles across the central and south Pacific, and to do this all within the confines of a less than 200 page narrative. This is by no means an easy feat to pull off, and I believe Harmsen has mostly succeeded in this goal. Readers interested in getting a "bird's eye" view of the conflict will thus have plenty to interest them. But this book is still, by design, a highly readable if rather conventional narrative told according to the most recent English-language scholarship. It is nothing more, but certainly nothing less either.
Take this as you will.
3.5 stars/5
[Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by the author on the condition that I would publish a review of it]
This is a good, if somewhat scattered work. Unlike the first part of Harmsen's trilogy, Storm Clouds over the Pacific, 1931–41, which was able to focus almost exclusively on the Sino-Japanese clash which began with the invasion of Manchuria in 1931, this second entry was always going to have the tough task of swapping rapidly between the various post-Pearl Harbor theaters of conflict (Malaya, the Philippines, Burma, China, the Solomons, etc.) while still retaining a coherent focus.
The results, I believe, are mixed. On the positive side, Harmsen again makes use of a wide range of scholarly secondary literature to tell his story, and while the photographs are perhaps not as novel a collection as they were in the first volume, they still make for an interesting visual record of the conflict. Many of the anecdotes which he chooses to highlight aspects of the war are also well told. Harmsen's account of the fate of the Italian soldiers left in China and the Pacific after Mussolini's deposing in 1943 (pp. 142-143), for example, is probably not a tale many average readers of the Pacific War are familiar with. However, as some critics noted in reviews of Part I, there is a certain practicability to the narrative which will not shock many experienced readers nor will shake the more traditional narratives of the Pacific War. The book opens, for example, with the famous story of the British Battleships Repulse and Prince of Wales, sunk off the coast of Malaya in their doomed attempt to stop the Japanese landings in the colony at the start of hostilities; interesting as usual, but obviously not a revelation.
However, I still believe readers should be careful about trying to judge the book on what they think it "ought" to be rather than obviously is. Harmsen's (apparent) purpose with this trilogy was to offer a readable account of the totality of the war -- from Burma to Ironbottom Sound -- without turning it into what typically emerges in popular accounts as an American-centrist narrative of island hopping and carrier battles across the central and south Pacific, and to do this all within the confines of a less than 200 page narrative. This is by no means an easy feat to pull off, and I believe Harmsen has mostly succeeded in this goal. Readers interested in getting a "bird's eye" view of the conflict will thus have plenty to interest them. But this book is still, by design, a highly readable if rather conventional narrative told according to the most recent English-language scholarship. It is nothing more, but certainly nothing less either.
Take this as you will.
3.5 stars/5
December 19, 2020
Volume 2 of a three volume series. Volume 3 is scheduled to be released in July 2021 (8 months from when I wrote this review). These volumes are quite concise and compact. The first two run about 250 pages; excluding end notes, indices, etc. Serious students of history may rightfully want more, but I found this to be the perfect length. Once the third volume is complete, it wouldn’t surprise me if all volumes are compiled into one lengthier tome. It would be just the right size for such subject matter.
This book focuses on the nation of Japan during World War II in 1942 and 1943. As the subtitle implies, the nation found themselves at a strong initial advantage after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Although the momentum would continue during the early months of 1942, Japan found that they had highly miscalculated how the United States would react to their attack. Rather than a country that would quickly capitulate and attempt to sue for peace, the people of America quickly rallied behind a ferocious jingoistic spirit, and the tide slowly began to turn. Although one could argue that Japan still had the upper hand during this time period, one can see the many cracks in their military foundation. Japan had, in fact, had awoken a sleeping tiger.
This book isn’t all about the conflicts with the U.S. Those more astute know that Japan actually began trying to flex its muscle by subjugating neighboring China several years before the U.S. entered the conflict, and even before the “war” was actually declared when Hitler invaded Poland. So we read about plenty of these horrid adventures and conquests of their Asian neighbor as well. Again, though, the main focus here is on Japan.
Since the book is somewhat short, I confess that there were portions where I would have liked to have more information about the particular event or battle. Example: the story of the battle of Midway is a wonderful tale that is magnified by the fact that the U.S. had actually “broken” the Japanese code. The challenge, though, was how to you take action once said code is deciphered without the enemy realizing that their code was now compromised? It’s a great story in and of itself, but due to page limitations with this volume, the event is only briefly touched. The same thing can be said of the battle of Guadalcanal. There have been a plethora of other books and movies about one of the most crucial Pacific conflicts, so curious readers can certainly go elsewhere. One shouldn’t expect, though, a lengthy account here. There are just too many other events that need attention in order for the book to summarize the two years of conflict.
I would highly recommend this book (and the first) for those with only a limited knowledge of the war; especially the Japanese involvement. It serves as a great primer and gives the reader just enough information to understand the key people, motivations, and strategies that would shape the outcome. Yes, there are tons of other books out there, but this one is good for one who wants to learn the basics.
This book focuses on the nation of Japan during World War II in 1942 and 1943. As the subtitle implies, the nation found themselves at a strong initial advantage after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Although the momentum would continue during the early months of 1942, Japan found that they had highly miscalculated how the United States would react to their attack. Rather than a country that would quickly capitulate and attempt to sue for peace, the people of America quickly rallied behind a ferocious jingoistic spirit, and the tide slowly began to turn. Although one could argue that Japan still had the upper hand during this time period, one can see the many cracks in their military foundation. Japan had, in fact, had awoken a sleeping tiger.
This book isn’t all about the conflicts with the U.S. Those more astute know that Japan actually began trying to flex its muscle by subjugating neighboring China several years before the U.S. entered the conflict, and even before the “war” was actually declared when Hitler invaded Poland. So we read about plenty of these horrid adventures and conquests of their Asian neighbor as well. Again, though, the main focus here is on Japan.
Since the book is somewhat short, I confess that there were portions where I would have liked to have more information about the particular event or battle. Example: the story of the battle of Midway is a wonderful tale that is magnified by the fact that the U.S. had actually “broken” the Japanese code. The challenge, though, was how to you take action once said code is deciphered without the enemy realizing that their code was now compromised? It’s a great story in and of itself, but due to page limitations with this volume, the event is only briefly touched. The same thing can be said of the battle of Guadalcanal. There have been a plethora of other books and movies about one of the most crucial Pacific conflicts, so curious readers can certainly go elsewhere. One shouldn’t expect, though, a lengthy account here. There are just too many other events that need attention in order for the book to summarize the two years of conflict.
I would highly recommend this book (and the first) for those with only a limited knowledge of the war; especially the Japanese involvement. It serves as a great primer and gives the reader just enough information to understand the key people, motivations, and strategies that would shape the outcome. Yes, there are tons of other books out there, but this one is good for one who wants to learn the basics.
May 19, 2022
Sadly way to americentric, Hideki Tojo, Isoroku Yamamoto, Tomojuki Yamashita, Shōwa gets pretty much 0 attention whilst obscure American soldiers and ''official historian of the American Navy'' gets pages to put forward their view of the war. Disappointment when the first book of ''War in the Far East'' gives plenty of info on the Japanese viewpoint. This could have been forgiven, if it wasn't that the book was set out to focus on Japan. The derogatory term ''Japs'' is historically accurate, but when it goes on and on about the ''Japs'' and never turns back to the Japanese view or interior politics/military decisions (and motivations) it gets pretty tiresome. Expected more after a decent account of the Sino-Japanese war + Pearl Harbour that was objective in its description and well written. Perhaps the last part will be more interesting, perhaps Kamikaze and the fight for the home islands will be more focused on the Japanese perspective. But this wasn't anything more than a military history from the American (Roosevelt's) perspective. Expected more. Disappointing.
2.5
2.5
April 28, 2021
Jungle Warfare
Peter Harmsen continues the story of the Pacific Theatre of World War II in the second installment of an intended trilogy. "Japan Runs Wild" covers the years 1942 and 1943, during which Imperial Japan contended with the United States, a new member of the Allies they had provoked into joining the war with an attack on Pear Harbor in December 1941. The book details the conflict on the islands of the Pacific, notably Wake Island and Guadalcanal, as the United States was able to switch very quickly from a defensive to an offensive footing, pushing deeper in to Japanese occupied territory and liberating it from the oppression of the Japanese regime. This booknis well-sourced and contains all the information a reader could want on the period and the subject. This is a book worth reading for those interested in World War II, military history, naval history, and Asian history.
Peter Harmsen continues the story of the Pacific Theatre of World War II in the second installment of an intended trilogy. "Japan Runs Wild" covers the years 1942 and 1943, during which Imperial Japan contended with the United States, a new member of the Allies they had provoked into joining the war with an attack on Pear Harbor in December 1941. The book details the conflict on the islands of the Pacific, notably Wake Island and Guadalcanal, as the United States was able to switch very quickly from a defensive to an offensive footing, pushing deeper in to Japanese occupied territory and liberating it from the oppression of the Japanese regime. This booknis well-sourced and contains all the information a reader could want on the period and the subject. This is a book worth reading for those interested in World War II, military history, naval history, and Asian history.
January 24, 2024
1942 started with the Japanese advance all over the Pacific and Asian continent. Island after island, city after city was falling to their Army and Navy. But by 1943 the tide was turning, and the Japanese were in retreat.
Why I started this book: Great trilogy and I was eager to continue Harmsen's retelling of Japanese world war.
Why I finished it: This book flew by and I admire Harmsen showing just how late in the war the Americans, Dutch and English were in comparison to the Chinese and Japanese.
Why I started this book: Great trilogy and I was eager to continue Harmsen's retelling of Japanese world war.
Why I finished it: This book flew by and I admire Harmsen showing just how late in the war the Americans, Dutch and English were in comparison to the Chinese and Japanese.
October 24, 2020
Excellent on Japan - Spotty on the US
The material on Japan especially with regard to China was new and informative. The sections on the naval war strings excerpts giving the sense of action but were not checked against current material. One carrier battle, Eastern Solomins, is omitted. It is enjoyable if you have some understanding of the Allied operations, but would be a poor place to start your reading
The material on Japan especially with regard to China was new and informative. The sections on the naval war strings excerpts giving the sense of action but were not checked against current material. One carrier battle, Eastern Solomins, is omitted. It is enjoyable if you have some understanding of the Allied operations, but would be a poor place to start your reading
January 30, 2024
I was considering giving it a four because the book seems somewhat superficial. Midway is covered in just one page. However, on the other hand, the experience of the lowly private is given more emphasis, and that aspect is quite enjoyable, at least for me. There aren't any dramatic moments like Doorman "I am attacking follow me!!" or Yamaguchi going down with his ship. Despite this, there are numerous 'Japs in the trees!!!' moments
June 15, 2021
A good short summary of Japan's side of the war from 1941 to the end of 1943. By this date the outcome of the conflict is not in doubt. As expected for a military history series besides a careful analysis and review, there are maps, almost 50 photos, and dozens of pages of references. The text is basically 165 pages but reviews the military and civilian aspects of Japan
August 21, 2021
Interesting Historical Read
I enjoyed reading about the Pacific campaign of WW II. This book went into much detail on the various battles in the Pacific, and gave much perspective from those involved. It is a recommended read for any WW II history buffs.
I enjoyed reading about the Pacific campaign of WW II. This book went into much detail on the various battles in the Pacific, and gave much perspective from those involved. It is a recommended read for any WW II history buffs.
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September 17, 2021Japan Runs Wild
I think thus book was nice... it showed the history and it was very accurate but it showed some very clear perspective of Japan that wasn't wrong in any way bit it was very one sided.
But it was a very informative book nevertheless
I think thus book was nice... it showed the history and it was very accurate but it showed some very clear perspective of Japan that wasn't wrong in any way bit it was very one sided.
But it was a very informative book nevertheless
February 28, 2021
I've read better on WW II. Not enough overview, facts, figures, analysis and too much emphasis on the blatant violence, cruelty and atrocities of the war in the Pacific.
September 26, 2021
Not as good as the first one
There is a lot of battle details, but it doesn't have the political nuance of the first volume. Still an enjoyable read.
There is a lot of battle details, but it doesn't have the political nuance of the first volume. Still an enjoyable read.
December 23, 2021
See the full review here:
https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/ASPJ...
https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/ASPJ...
February 25, 2023
Okay
The book did not have the quality of the first.2 years of war and only 160 pages of content.Very disappointing .
The book did not have the quality of the first.2 years of war and only 160 pages of content.Very disappointing .
May 15, 2023
good history
Makes a good picture of ww 2 events, how the different geographical areas affect one another. Would help a student see how today’s world was formed.
Makes a good picture of ww 2 events, how the different geographical areas affect one another. Would help a student see how today’s world was formed.
October 24, 2024
Japan's conquests 1942 t0 1943. An informative and entertaining read.
April 15, 2023
A fair history of the Asia-Pacific war’s early years, but seems overly brief for such a big subject.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews