Genesis, Employment, Aftermath: First World War Tanks and the New Warf

[Gareth Davies]

Hot off the press my copy of this book arrived this morning. I strongly recommend it. It's a collection of 9 essays by 9 different authors (all PhDs). The volume aims "to reconsider a number of aspects of the history of First World War tanks, as well as identifying new areas, but (by?) examining the subject within an international context, with contributions on Britain, France, Germany and Russia.

From a personal perspective the chapters on Practical Considerations of Tank Ops (Bryn Hammond), Intelligence (Jim Beach), Comms (Brian Hall), and Other Theatres (Steven J Martin), and Aftermath (Alaric Searle) are of most interest but the other 5 chapters are all of much more than passing interest. The 1/2 chapter on Palestine passes the GD test in that it only repeats 1 of the two oft cited myths. Two chapters on German tanks and two chapters on French tanks (one of which is dedicated to the wonderful FT) round off the contents.

Well researched, footnotes (rather than endnotes), and well written, I do have two slight complaints. First, it doesn't have many photographs but in saying that I am being picky. This book isn't designed for those who want to count rivets, its for those who want some scholarly analysis. And second, it's only 9 chapters. I was left wanting more (which is actually a positive not a complaint)

I strongly recommend the book to generalists and to specialists.

[Steven Broomfield]

Gareth - I'd not seen this thread. It sounds interesting.

Two questions:

1. Does it have anything on tank/cavalry co-operation in 1918?

2. How much is it? These things tend to be pricey.

[Gareth Davies]

1. No, it doesn't. Do any books properly examine this subject?

2. Just shy of £30 on Amazon. 10% cheaper on the Helion website.

[paulgranger]

It's available for around £17 including postage from some of Amazon's book-selling partners

[Steven Broomfield]

Given the title, is Peter Gabriel involved?

[Gareth Davies]

No, he left in 75.

Totally not connected with the GW but I am going to say it anyway, Peter Gabriel taught me to skateboard.

[charlesmessenger]

Gareth

Many thanks. I have ordered it on your recommendation.

Charles M

[Gareth Davies]

That's quite a weight on my shoulders Charles!

[The Scorer]

That's quite a weight on my shoulders Charles!

Yes, but with your skateboarding ability, you'll be able to outrun any pursuers!

(Sorry!)

[squirrel]

Gareth

Many thanks. I have ordered it on your recommendation.

Charles M

Me also.