Customer Reviews

The Battle of the Somme: A Topographical History

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This is a thoroughly researched account of the battles of the Somme, 1916. All areas fought over, and the rear lines are well covered with good descriptive accounts. What makes this book useful are the descriptions of the numerous Commonwealth War Graves which abound in the area. There is a full list of all military units which took part in the battle. Ideal for students and those who are familier with the terrible events of 1916.

The Editorial Review/Product Description on the page listing the "The Battle of the Somme: A Topographical History" (1996 hardcover 0750913444) incorrectly states that it is a new edition of "Legacy of the Somme 1916: The Battle in Fact, Film and Fiction" (1996, 1999: 0750911603), when in reality it is a new edition of "When the Barrage Lifts: A Topographical History and Commentary on the Battle of the Somme, 1916" first published in 1987 hardcover (0947893024) and 1990 paperback (0434292753). Both "Battle of the Somme" (488 pages) and "Legacy of the Somme" (256 pages) are by the same author, Gerald Gliddon, and publisher, but have completely different purposes and content.

In the "Battle of the Somme" and "When the Barrage Lifts" the author provides a short history of each town, village and wood associated with the battle, drawing on the testimony of those who took part and including a chronology and bibliography. It is organized like an encylopedia with each topographical place listed in alphabetical order with its location and the units engaged in the events which are described based on hundreds of cited records. The "Battle of the Somme: A Topographical History" (1996 hardcover, and 1999 paperback: 0750919833) corrects occasional errors and adds some new material, including an order of battle and formations, along with 22 pages of photographs and 24 excellent maps. This book has proven a necessary addition to the library of any student of the First World War and an essential handbook for the increasing number of visitors to the battlefield.