The Splendid and the Vile

By; Erik Larson This is an account of the first year of the war between England and Germany from the time Winston Churchill became Prime Minister (May 1940-May1941). The information was gleaned from the personal diaries of people who were a part of the inner workings of the government. It filled in spaces from information I have known about from previous books or from being old enough at that time to remember. It confirms my belief that had he not been the leader England would have found some accommodation with Hitler and ceased resisting. With his dynamic leadership ability he was able to stiffen the backs of the people to continue when enduring nearly nightly bombing raids which killed or maimed many thousands. Hitler’s goal of bombing cities was to break the will of the people. Growing impatient he turned his attention eastward and invaded Russia thinking they would be defeated quickly after which he would turn his attention back to England. As we know that did not happen. Churchill realized that they could never defeat Germany without America entering the war. He courted F.D.R. step by step receiving aid short of declaring war. This book ends before that happened. We learn a lot about the interworking of the government as well as become acquainted with family on a personal basis. This book was suggested to me by a friend and a family member. You will enjoy it. I hope you will.