November 1942

November 1942 by Peter Englund is an evocative exploration of a month that irrevocably changed the course of World War Two, capturing the essence of history through the eyes of those who lived it. This gripping narrative traverses continents and perspectives, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the most critical period of the twentieth century.

The narrative begins at the dawn of November 1942, a time when the Axis powers seemed poised to dominate the world stage. By month's end, the tide had turned dramatically, signalling the inevitable downfall of their ambitions. Through a kaleidoscopic lens, Englund recounts these transformative thirty days, detailing key events like el-Alamein, Guadalcanal, the French North African landings, the Japanese retreat in New Guinea, and the Soviet encirclement of the German 6th Army at Stalingrad.

What sets November 1942 apart is its unique approach of focusing on personal experiences. Englund delves into the lives of forty characters, each bringing their own perspective to the monumental shifts occurring around them. From a Soviet infantryman facing brutal conditions in Stalingrad to an Italian truck driver navigating the North African desert; from a partisan hidden in the Belarussian forests to a machine gunner flying in a British bomber – these stories illuminate the diverse human experiences of the war.

The book also brings to life the experiences of a twelve-year-old girl in Shanghai, a university student in Paris, a housewife on Long Island, and a prisoner in Treblinka. Historical figures such as Albert Camus, Vasily Grossman, and Vera Brittain make poignant appearances, enriching the tapestry of narratives woven by Peter Englund.

In addition to personal anecdotes, Englund incorporates significant wartime milestones: the launch of SS James Oglethorpe, the fate of U-604, a German submarine, the construction of the first nuclear reactor, and the making of the iconic film Casablanca. Each detail serves to immerse readers deeper into the fabric of this pivotal month.

November 1942 is not just a chronicle but a profound human story, much like Englund's previous acclaimed work, The Beauty and the Sorrow. The book captures the immensity and emotional range of one of the most dramatic periods in human history, making it an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of World War Two through an intensely personal lens.