Summaries of books about History & Biographies:
Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.
Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany's, and the Dawn of the Modern Woman
Sam Wasson
The book delves into the making of the iconic film "Breakfast at Tiffany's," exploring how Audrey Hepburn's portrayal of Holly Golightly became a symbol of modern, independent womanhood. It examines the cultural impact of the character and the film's influence on fashion, film, and society's perceptions of women in the early 1960s.
See full summary
Operation Thunderbolt
Flight 139 and the Raid on Entebbe Airport, the Most Audacious Hostage Rescue Mission in History
Saul David
The book recounts the hijacking of Air France Flight 139 by terrorists in 1976 and the subsequent Israeli commando raid on Entebbe Airport in Uganda to rescue the hostages. It details the planning and execution of the mission, the political backdrop, and the personal stories of those involved in this dramatic and historic event.
See full summary
Life Is So Good
George Dawson|Richard Glaubman
The book recounts the life story of George Dawson, an African American man who learned to read at the age of 98, reflecting on his experiences of the 20th century, including witnessing racial injustices and societal changes. It is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of education, and the rich perspective gained through a century of lived history.
See full summary
1812
The War of 1812
Walter R. Borneman
The book provides a comprehensive account of the military and political events of the War of 1812, detailing the conflicts between the United States, Britain, and Native American tribes. It examines the causes, key battles, and consequences of the war, including its impact on American national identity and territorial expansion.
See full summary
The Sisters
The Saga of the Mitford Family
Mary S. Lovell
The book chronicles the lives of the six Mitford sisters, aristocratic British women who became famous for their beauty, controversial political affiliations, and varied literary talents. It delves into their personal relationships, ideological divides during the tumultuous 20th century, and the impact they had on society and each other.
See full summary
1944
FDR and the Year That Changed History
Jay Winik
The book delves into the pivotal events of 1944, including the D-Day invasion, the Holocaust, and the political maneuvers of President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II. It examines how these critical moments and decisions shaped the outcome of the war and the future of the world.
See full summary
The Twilight Warriors
Robert Gandt
The book chronicles the final battle of World War II in the Pacific, focusing on the pilots and crew members of the USS Enterprise. It details their intense combat experiences and personal stories as they engage in the critical air and sea clashes leading up to Japan's surrender.
See full summary
My Life
Bill Clinton
The autobiography chronicles the 42nd U.S. President's early life, education, and political career, including his terms in the White House. It provides a detailed account of his experiences, policy decisions, and the challenges he faced during his presidency, as well as personal reflections on his life and work.
See full summary
Living History
Hillary Rodham Clinton
The memoir recounts the life of the former First Lady, U.S. Senator, and Secretary of State, from her early years, her marriage to Bill Clinton, and her role in his political career, to her own work in public service. It provides an intimate look at her experiences during the Clinton presidency, including the challenges and controversies faced, as well as her perspective on political events and her vision for America's future.
See full summary
No Surrender
My Thirty-Year War
Hiroo Onoda
The memoir recounts the experiences of Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier who continued fighting World War II in the Philippines until 1974, refusing to surrender for thirty years because he did not believe the war had ended. It details his survival tactics, guerrilla activities, and the psychological journey he underwent until his eventual surrender and return to Japan.
See full summary