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The Forgotten Soldier

Series: W&N Military
4.39 goodreads logo

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( 11,922 ratings, 774 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Forgotten Soldier by Guy Sajer recounts the harrowing experiences of a young Alsatian serving in the German army on the Eastern Front during World War II. The narrative vividly explores the brutal realities of combat, the psychological toll of war, and the struggle for survival amidst overwhelming adversity. Sajer's memoir offers a deeply personal and gripping perspective on the complexities of identity and loyalty in the midst of one of history's most devastating conflicts.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this gripping memoir if you are fascinated by first-hand accounts of World War II, as it vividly portrays the harrowing experiences of a German-French soldier on the Eastern Front. It offers an intense, personal perspective on the challenges and horrors faced by soldiers during the war, appealing to those interested in understanding the human side of military history.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The devastating true story of a young Franco-German soldier trapped in the lethal machinery of total war on the Eastern Front in World War II.

One of the greatest true stories of armed combat ever written. An international bestseller. To be included in the CMP 'I was there...' promotion

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Forgotten Soldier is an international bestseller that presents a German soldier's first-hand account of life on the Russian front during the second half of World War II. When Guy Sajer joins the infantry, full of ideals in the summer of 1942, the German army is enjoying unparalleled success in Russia. However, he quickly discovers that for the foot soldier, the glory of military success conceals a much harsher reality of hunger, fatigue, and constant deprivation.

Posted to the elite Grosse Deutschland division, with its sadistic instructors who mercilessly shoot down those who fail to make the grade, Sajer enters a violent and remorseless world where all youthful hope is gradually ground down. In this environment, all that matters is the brute will to survive.

As the biting cold of the Russian winter sets in and the tide begins to turn against the Germans, life becomes an endless round of pounding artillery attacks and vicious combat against a relentless and merciless Red Army. This book of stunning force serves as an unforgettable reminder of the horrors of war.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

iThe Forgotten Soldier by Guy Sajer is often praised for its visceral and gripping first-hand account of a German soldier's experiences on the Eastern Front during World War II. Readers highlight its raw depiction of the harrowing brutality and psychological impact of war. Some reviews note the authenticity and honesty in the narrative, though there's occasional debate over the accuracy of specific details.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780304352401

Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 15 July 1999

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Cassell Military

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 33.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 386g

Pages: 560

About the Author

See opposite. '...there was a war, and I married it because there was nothing else when I reached the age of falling in love...Suddenly there were two flags for me to honour...I entered the service, dreamed and hoped. I also knew cold and fear in places never seen by Lili Marlene. A day came when I should have died, and after that nothing seemed very important. So I have stayed as I am, without regret, separated from the normal human condition.' - Guy Sajer

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