Rendezvous in the Coral Sea [Paperback]

Randolph Chitwood (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 1, 1999

A dramatic personal account of the author's experiences during World War II - includung the sinking of his ship in the Coral Sea. The book begins with his voluntary enlistment and follows a chronological path through his training and service at sea as a line officer in all three theaters of war, culminating in the surrender of Japan. In addition to the USS Wasp (CV-7) he recounts his service on the famous "Fighting Lady", the USS Yorktown (CV-10).

Editorial Reviews

Review

"During my years at Harcourt, Brace and then more years as the editor of Meredith's Book-of-the-Month Club, I read a goodly number of books. Very few evoked the enthusiasm "Rendezvous in the Coral Sea" did. It is very well written .. and the people come to life in a way not many characters in bestselling novels do." -- Hester Phreaner, former editor of Book-of-the-Month Club

"Rendezvous in the Coral Sea" is not a memorial to veterans, nor is it a cry for recognition; it is a simple tale that represents an entire generation's dedication to serving their country." -- Hal Johnson, The Roanoke Times

"This is a wonderful book. We see a great deal of the history of W.W.II from one young man's point of view. The story is moving, and filled with terrifying action and the tragic losses inevitable in war. Yet it is also full of graceful good humor. I can't imagine a reader who won't enjoy it." -- Ann Rockwell, author of more than 100 books

About the Author

In 1936 Randolph Chitwood, a native of Roanoke, Virginia, cut short his studies at the University of Virginia to attend the Art Students League in New York. But as he pursued his career, the war in Europe convinced him that the United States would soon be involved in world-wide conflict. In response, he joined the US Naval Reserves, where he served, earning the Purple Heart for wounds received during the sinking of the USS Wasp. Since the end of the war, he has been a painter and illustrator, his paintings having been shown in New York, Connecticut, and private collections. His illustrations and book designs have appeared in books by numerous publishers. He has written several short stories for local publications. "Rendezvous in the Coral Sea" is his first book.

Product Details

• Paperback: 229 pages
• Publisher: Red Top Pr (July 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0967195403
• ISBN-13: 978-0967195407
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,452,253 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An Excellent Read!, November 5, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Rendezvous in the Coral Sea (Paperback)

As a woman in her mid-20's, I can honestly say this book appeals to a wide audience. Although "Rendezvous in the Coral Sea" describes the author's experience during WWII, it is clearly the story of so many soldiers who fought in the war. The reader is exposed to the tragic, romantic, political, and humorous (I laughed out loud!) aspects of the war. The story is so real and appealing that I felt myself nostalgic for a time during which I never lived. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A gripping account of one man's true journey thru WWII, October 14, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Rendezvous in the Coral Sea (Paperback)

A beautifully written candid account of one man's experiences during World War II beginning with his volunteering for the Navy, his assignment to the air craft carrier, the Wasp and his personal account of its sinking and his survival. An easy read. History and literature lovers alike will enjoy this one and cry for more from the author.

5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous story full of history, January 4, 2000

By 

"mowryd" - See all my reviews

This review is from: Rendezvous in the Coral Sea (Paperback)

This book is an excellent read for the history buff, OR anyone with a taste for WWII literature. Chitwood's adventures are at times tragic, galling, terrifying and hilarious. His love for an exotic island girl is offset by the garishness of the War. This is Chitwood's first book, yet it reads as though he has been writing for years. This is probably due to the fact that he has kept these stories to himself for all this time. This is an account of war told from the "grunt's" perspective--it does not glorify war, but glorifies the men AND women who dutifully and bravely served this country.