Customer Reviews

Munda Trail: The New Georgia Campaign, June-August, 1943

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Hammel's "Munda Trail" attempts to fill a gap in the historical literature concerning the central and northern Solomons campaigns. It is thoroughly researched and contains the official U.S. Army maps and a fine set of photographs. The writing starts off brisk and interesting, but grinds to a halt as the troops approach Munda Field (much like in real life). The multitude of small-unit actions would be engrossing with more detailed maps and clearer reference to context. As it was, I found myself losing sight of the forest for the trees. A highlight of the book is the author's characterizations of the various personalities involved. However, I would have liked to see the backgrounds and personalities of the foot soldiers better represented. The New Georgia campaign certainly deserves more thorough coverage. Hammel's book is just a start.

Nothing against the brave American soldiers who fought and died in the New Georgia campaign against Japan. Theirs was an epic and costly struggle that was a vital step in America's ultimate victory in the Pacific theater. Unfortunately, "Munda Trail," while an excellent historical document of what transpired, is a fairly dry read. Author Eric Hammel just doesn't bring the battlefield to life in the manner of a Stephen Ambrose or a Cornelius Ryan. This book is fine as a work of history, but nor such a great casual read.

I have read all other books by Eric Hammel except Bloody Tarawa and this book "Munda Trail" does not even begin to compare with his other thrilling works. I really did not get into this book until page 90 out of 233. And even after that the most interesting parts were sparadioc at best. I finished a library edition and learned several new history items I was not aware of, but it is not one that I will purchase at a later date.