Pearl Harbor: The Day of Infamy-An Illustrated History : Book Review

"Pearl Harbor" by Dan van der Vat is an incredible and captivating examination of the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor that occurred on December 7, 1941. The level of detail and extensive research put into this book is remarkable, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the attack, the attack itself, and the aftermath.

Van der Vat expertly weaves together a variety of sources, including personal accounts, historical records, and military analysis, to bring the story to life. This interdisciplinary approach allows readers to fully grasp the complexities and significance of the attack.

One aspect that sets this book apart is the author's exploration of the political context surrounding the attack. Van der Vat takes the time to delve into the global tensions that eventually led to Japan's decision to launch the surprise attack on the American naval base. By doing so, he provides readers with a deeper understanding of the factors at play during this critical time in history.

Additionally, the book delves into the intelligence failures and miscommunications that allowed the attack to occur. Van der Vat meticulously analyzes the tactical decisions made by both the Japanese and American forces during the battle, shedding light on the strategies employed by each side.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Pearl Harbor" is the focus on the human aspect of the attack. Through personal stories and interviews, van der Vat paints a vivid picture of the experiences of those who lived through the attack, including both military personnel and civilians. These personal narratives add depth and emotion to the historical account, making the events feel incredibly real and impactful.

What are readers saying?

Dan van der Vat's book, "Pearl Harbor," has received a range of feedback from readers. The book focuses on the events leading up to the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. Let's take a look at a summary of the reviews.

On the positive side, some readers praised the book for its thorough research and informative nature. They found the historical details to be accurate, appreciating the author's skill in bringing the events to life. These readers admired van der Vat's storytelling abilities, as they became fully engaged in the narrative.

However, on the other hand, there were critical reviews as well. Some reviewers felt that the book honed in too much on specific aspects of the attack, such as intelligence failures. They desired a more comprehensive analysis that would shed light on the broader context of the event. In addition, these readers found the writing style to be dry and disconnected from the characters involved.

Despite this criticism, many readers appreciated the book for its detailed account of the attack on Pearl Harbor. They believed van der Vat presented a balanced perspective, exploring both the Japanese and American sides of the story. These readers found the book to be well-researched and informative, uncovering lesser-known aspects of the attack.

However, some reviewers felt that the book lacked depth and failed to thoroughly explore the underlying causes and consequences of the attack. They desired a more critical analysis, urging the author to delve into the events leading up to the attack. These readers felt that the book focused too heavily on specific details, ultimately limiting their understanding of the historical context.

PearlHarborBook HistoricalNonfiction WorldWarII