Citadel: The Battle of Kursk

A good description of the battle, particularly from the German side. This is one of the four major battles that decided the outcome of WW2. I beleive it falls down in its description of Soviet defenses which ground the Wehrmacht down. These defenses played a large role in German defeat that appears largely unrecorded.

I have read a number of books on the battle and found Robins rendition very personal. Other authors simply describe the armies involved with little or no story. I thought the graphics were excellent and I think that with some reference this book could be made into a film winner.

While many other battles are much better known, few rival both the importance, preperation and result of this one battle. Hitler would pit his best troops, equipment and leaders against a Russian defense that was made up of the best of everything and which knew that the attack was coming. The defenders were dug in behind over 100 miles of mines, guns, tanks, artillery, supported by literally thousands of aircraft. The battle would invlove some of the largest battles of armour and aircraft to be seen.Robin Cross gives all the numbers, as well as descriptions of what was used by who. He gives the events that lead to and shaped this horrific battle. While doing this he also gives the small things that often tell much. An example is the order for gold braid for Russian uniforms. This was an indication of rising moral. An earlier plot to kill Hitler is also mentioned. As to the battle itself, he gives both the overall picture down to the individual level. An example is the description of what it was like to be in a Tiger tank during this battle. The final outcome of this battle is seen in that it was called "the death ride of the panzers" and that from here on out the German army could slowdown but not stop the drive of the Russians that would end in Berlin.