59 pages • 1 hour read
Stalingrad: The Fateful Siege, 1942–1943
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Book Brief
494
Book • Nonfiction
Stalingrad • 1940s
1998
Penguin Books
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Stalingrad by Antony Beevor is a nonfiction military history book detailing the Battle of Stalingrad (1942-1943) during World War II. It covers the events leading up to the battle, the fierce urban warfare between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, and the strategic mistakes and brutal combat that culminated in the German Sixth Army's surrender. The book explores the battle's legacy and its impact on the course of the war. The narrative includes detailed historical descriptions of extreme wartime violence and suffering.
Informative
Dark
Unnerving
Challenging
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
42,483 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Antony Beevor's Stalingrad offers a meticulously researched and gripping account of one of WWII's most pivotal battles. The narrative is praised for its vivid descriptions and humanization of the conflict. However, some find the dense details overwhelming. Overall, it’s a compelling read for history enthusiasts, though casual readers may struggle with its complexity.
Who Should Read Stalingrad?
Readers who enjoy Stalingrad by Antony Beevor typically appreciate meticulously researched historical narratives, harrowing wartime experiences, and detailed accounts of military strategy. Comparable to enthusiasts of Stephen E. Ambrose’s Band of Brothers or Cornelius Ryan’s The Longest Day, they seek immersive, fact-based stories from World War II.
42,483 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Adolf Hitler
Adolf Hitler
The Chancellor and Führer of Germany responsible for initiating World War II and orchestrating the invasion of Stalingrad. His decisions and leadership style significantly influence the military strategies discussed in the book.
Friedrich Paulus
Friedrich Paulus
A German general who commanded the Sixth Army during the Battle of Stalingrad. His leadership and decisions are pivotal in the events surrounding the battle.
Georgy Zhukov
Georgy Zhukov
A Soviet marshal who played a crucial role in defending against the German invasion and planning Operation Uranus. His military strategies are highlighted as instrumental in the Soviet defense.
Joseph Stalin
Joseph Stalin
The leader of the Soviet Union during World War II, known for his authoritative regime. His interactions with military leaders and strategic decisions are a focal point in the narrative.
Vasily Chuikov
Vasily Chuikov
The commander of the 62nd Army tasked with defending Stalingrad. His tactics and leadership style are central to the depiction of the battle's events.
494
Book • Nonfiction
Stalingrad • 1940s
1998
Penguin Books
Adult
18+ years
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