The Battle of the Admin Box in February 1944 marked a pivotal moment in World War II, showcasing a diverse group of British troops who achieved a surprising victory against a superior Japanese force. This fifteen-day conflict in the jungles of Northern Arakan not only turned the tide for British efforts in Burma but also provided crucial insights into defeating the Japanese army. James Holland's account highlights the heroism and determination of those involved, positioning this battle as a significant yet often overlooked event in the broader narrative of the war.
Following significant victories in Tunisia and Sicily, Allied forces grew optimistic about reaching Rome by Christmas 1943 after Italy's surrender. This narrative explores the complexities of warfare, highlighting that success is rarely straightforward, even amidst apparent triumphs. The book delves into the strategic challenges and the shifting dynamics of World War II, offering insights into the military decisions and morale of the Allies during this critical period.
'A beautiful, evocative novel that captures the fear and mood of the early days of the war' Dylan O'Leary The village of Alvesdon has been home to the Castells for generations. But the year is 1939 and the peace and tranquillity there is about to be shattered once more by the stormclouds of war in Europe. As three generations of the family gather, they must all face the prospect of their lives being transformed beyond recognition the moment Britain declares war on Germany. When the inevitable happens and Britain finds itself at war, the younger members of the family and farm workers are called up to fight and those who remain must battle to keep the home fires burning and the farm afloat. The gentle certainties of rural life are replaced by the urgent clamour of war, in the air, at sea and on land, where events unfold with dizzying rapidity and unexpected consequences. Stretching from the glorious summer of 1939 to the Battle of Britain the following year, acclaimed historian James Holland paints a compelling and immersive fictional portrait of how the war changed everything. For one family and for a community, their way of life can never really be the same again...
PRE-ORDER BOOK 12 OF THE LADYBIRD EXPERT HISTORY OF THE SECOND WORLD WAR, FROM AWARD-WINNING HISTORIAN JAMES HOLLAND Why did Japan decide to attack at Pearl Harbour? What was the Japanese vision of a Greater Asian Co-Prosperity Sphere? How did the American strategy turn the tide against Japanese offensives? Uncover the complexities of the brutal war against Japan. From the surprise attack on Pearl Harbour, Oahu, to the Phillipines Campaign, the Allies were finally able to turn the tide against the onslaught of Japanese forces. Ending in Japanese surrender after the devastating atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the war in Japan was eventually won, but at the cost of civilian lives. THE WAR THAT LED TO TWO ATOMIC BOMBINGS Written by historian, author and broadcaster James Holland, Victory Against Japan is an essential introduction to the tactics that finally brought an end to the Second World War. Discover more titles in the Ladybird Expert series: D-Day The Desert War Genetics The Battle of the Nile
Pre-order an engaging account of the Second World War, vividly illustrated by renowned artist Keith Burns and narrated by acclaimed historian James Holland. This monumental conflict, spanning from 1939 to 1945, claimed over 60 million lives and involved 300 million combatants, leaving no corner of the globe untouched. From the cities of Europe to the jungles of Burma, the deserts of North Africa, and the remote islands of the South Pacific, the war's impact was felt across every continent and ocean. The era saw rapid advancements in technology for land, sea, and air warfare, shaping the future in profound ways. Holland combines compelling personal narratives with a clear understanding of the strategic battles between the Allies and Axis powers, creating an irresistible narrative. Over 250 specially commissioned illustrations by Burns add stunning visual drama to the text, bringing the events of the war to life. This groundbreaking collaboration, five years in the making, offers a unique and unforgettable perspective on the extraordinary events that defined a generation.
PRE-ORDER BOOK 11 OF THE LADYBIRD EXPERT HISTORY OF THE SECOND WORLD WAR, FROM
AWARD-WINNING HISTORIAN JAMES HOLLANDDiscover more titles in the Ladybird
Expert series:D-DayThe Desert WarGeneticsThe Battle of the Nile
PRE-ORDER BOOK 11 OF THE LADYBIRD EXPERT HISTORY OF THE SECOND WORLD WAR, FROM AWARD-WINNING HISTORIAN JAMES HOLLAND Why were British troops in Burma? What was The Defence of the Admin Box? How did the British defeat the Japanese troops? THE BURMA CAMPAIGN was one of the most prolonged campaigns in the South-East Asian theatre of war, but it was also one of the most dramatic. Against Japanese troops, and monsoon weather, the Allies finally prevailed, demonstrating to the world that the Axis powers could be defeated in the East. BRITAIN'S TURNING POINT IN THE WAR IN THE EAST Written by historian, author and broadcaster James Holland, Burma 1943-1944 is an essential, accessible introduction to Britain's triumph in the East. Discover more titles in the Ladybird Expert series: D-Day The Desert War Genetics
With the invasion of France imminent and following a victory in Sicily, the Allies entered Southern Italy in September 1943, aiming to push Axis forces north and reach Rome by Christmas. Despite Italy's surrender, German forces mounted a fierce resistance, leading to one of the war's most brutal battles. As preparations for the D-Day landings progressed, shortages in shipping and materiel hindered the advance, resulting in tragic consequences. The harsh weather during the critical months leading up to Monte Cassino exacted a heavy toll for every hard-fought mile gained by Allied troops. Chronicling these dark months with unflinching detail, this account of the campaign stands out from traditional histories. The author, known for his ground-level perspective on the Second World War, vividly brings the story to life by weaving together letters, diaries, and other remarkable documents. The narrative traces the battles fought across diverse terrains—plains, mountains, and devastated villages—amid intense heat and, later, frigid cold and relentless rain. This approach immerses readers in the heart of the action, offering a fresh and revealing perspective on this pivotal phase of the war.
