Total War: A People's History of World War II

by Kate Clements, Paul Cornish, Vikki Hawkins

An authoritative illustrated history of World War II complemented by artifacts and stories of those who lived through it from across the globe. Total War is an illustrated examination of the most significant historical episode of the twentieth World War II. This immersive account of a conflict that permanently reshaped the geopolitical landscape is told not only through compelling photographs, maps, and infographics produced specifically for the book, but also through a series of artifacts that convey the real-life stories of some of the millions worldwide―from the United States to Europe, Asia, and Africa―who were affected by the war. Published to coincide with the much-anticipated opening of the new Second World War and Holocaust galleries at the Imperial War Museums (IWM), London, in 2021, Total War is an essential volume for anyone interested in the everyday realities of one of the most brutal and far-reaching wars in modern history. Numerous images from the IWM’s unique Second World War and Holocaust collection are included, many of which have rarely been published. From a doll belonging to a Jewish child refugee to a kamikaze pilot’s final letter, and from Molotov cocktails to a US airman’s bomber jacket, the book delves into the significance behind the deeply moving objects reproduced on its pages. With precision, sensitivity, and a truly global approach, Total War offers a strikingly original visual perspective on an emotive and often controversial subject whose implications are still being felt today. 390 illustrations, including 6 maps and 9 infographics

Genres: History, World War II

288 pages, Hardcover

Published November 9, 2021

Reviews

[Courtney B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent overview of WWII. It is easy to understand and balances top-down policy/battlefield history with bottom-up individual experiences well. The images are incredible and the infographics are remarkably clear. I especially appreciated the global perspective, which can be hard to find in similar books, which tend to be more Eurocentric.

My only critiques were that I would have liked a few more maps and timelines. Sometimes the military history felt out of order or repeated if you are reading it in big chunks/a few sittings. Overall, really good book that helped me write four lectures without needing significant outside resources.

[Andrea Engle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Breath-taking in its scope, succinct in its reportage, and eye-opening in its illustrations, this concise history of the Second World War from the vantage point of Everyman well serves the reader seeking a broad overview … magnificent …

[Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written from the Brittain point of view experience, this book offers a very personal view of the impact of the conflict into the lives of ordinary people. Very informative and well documented.