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Band of Brothers

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1992

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Book Brief

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Stephen E. Ambrose

Band of Brothers

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1992
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Europe • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose is a nonfiction account that follows Easy Company of the 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne from their intensive paratrooper training in 1942 through their pivotal role in major World War II battles, including the D-Day invasion and the Battle of the Bulge, and finally to their experiences after the war.

Informative

Gritty

Emotional

Inspirational

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.6

143,911 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose has been praised for its detailed and accurate portrayal of Easy Company's WWII experiences. Reviewers commend Ambrose's engaging narrative style and thorough research, offering readers a gripping account of camaraderie and heroism. However, some critique the book for occasional inaccuracies and a perceived overreliance on a single perspective.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Band of Brothers?

Readers who are fascinated by World War II history, military strategy, and personal narratives of soldiers will enjoy Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose. Comparable to works like Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand and The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw, this book appeals to those interested in bravery, brotherhood, and the human aspects of war.

4.6

143,911 ratings

89%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Stephen E. Ambrose

An academically-trained historian known for making military history accessible to general readers; he uses personal accounts and documents to create a detailed narrative from the soldiers' perspectives.

A respected leader of Easy Company with a calm demeanor and focus on objectives, his leadership style greatly influences the cohesion and effectiveness of the company during World War II.

The first commanding officer of Easy Company, known for his strict training regime and unpopularity among his men, he later transitions to a supply officer role.

A thoughtful and articulate soldier whose revealing letters and interviews offer insight into the mindset of an educated civilian serving in the military during World War II.

A commander who joins Easy Company during the Battle of the Bulge, known for his fearless leadership and rumored to have engaged in controversial actions.

The pragmatic and realistic commander of the 506th, 101st Airborne, responsible for key leadership decisions impacting Easy Company.

Commander of the 101st during D-Day missions, he attempts to support his men, though perceptions of his leadership vary among the soldiers.

A leader within Easy Company who faces challenges due to alcohol, he survives multiple combat situations and represents a civilian turned soldier.

The Supreme Commander of Allied forces in Europe, whose strategic decisions influence the broader actions and success of the unit.

A leader whose inability to act decisively in critical moments during missions exemplifies poor command.

A figure involved in pivotal attacks, remembered for his close relationships with his men and later reassignment.

The 1st Platoon leader known for his indecisiveness, resulting in a transition to a stateside role.

A paratrooper who faces both physical and psychological challenges post-war, illustrating the long-term effects of combat on soldiers.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Europe • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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