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Wednesday, 20 May 2020

Book Review: The Cold War by Dr Norman Friedman

Last Updated: 16 October 2021

The Cold War by Dr Norman Friedman book cover

AD* | Twenty years ago, the Berlin Wall fell and Communism in Europe began to collapse. The Cold War celebrates that anniversary with a graphic account of the long-running global drama that played from the end of World War II until the era of Gorbachev and glasnost. During that time, such high-tension events as the Cuban Missile Crisis brought us to the brink of Armageddon but both sides always drew back. Follow the development of each important stage in the long, chilly conflict that divided the world into two spheres of influence. 

This is the third compact guide I've had the pleasure of reading. Check out my reviews of The Napoleonic Wars and Queen Elizabeth II for more great historical non-fiction books.

Providing a comprehensive insight into both sides of the Cold War, this book is a great compact guide and a handy resource for those wishing to learn more about this period of history. The book also acts as a strong introduction to the subject, the ideal overview without getting too bogged down in the detail.

Each chapter explains a significant event in the duration of the war, with a useful timeline breaking it down further at the start of every chapter. This format ensures the information is delivered in easily-digestible bitesize chunks - ideal for reading on the go. Also dotted throughout are short biographies providing a quick overview of some of the key players of the Cold War. Of course, many of these personalities are well-known names, but it is still useful to understand the role they played in the war.

The book is quite short but this suits its compact nature as all the important information and key facts are delivered while avoiding unnecessary additions. The writing style is straightforward and to the point, which is always good when reading a factual book like this. There are also a few notable photographs in the centre pages of the book which really help to bring the events described throughout to life.

Overall, this book is a great introduction to the topic and an enjoyable opportunity to learn more about this period of recent history. 

Rating: 3 stars

The Cold War is available to buy now.

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* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

Will you be reading the book? Let me know in the comments below! 

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