Pearl Harbor

This book is not so much about the actual attack on Pearl Harbor itself as it is an overview of Japanese naval policies between the wars, Japanese pre-war planning strategies for fighting the U.S. Navy and the implications of Pearl Harbor in terms of U.S. Naval strength (both short-term and long). There is also an excellent analysis on issues such why a second carrier strike was not launched on Pearl's infrastructure and rest of fleet remaining. All in all an excellent introduction, especially considering that the book is only about 200 pages in length.

I purchased a hardcover version of this book soon after it was published. It lacks some insights found in other books on this subject but is qutie informative in regards to the strengths of the Japanese attack force. I was also impressed by the illustration of the battle as well as use of period photos. A good book to have for those interested in the subject.

I work with Ned Willmott and this is my favorite book that he has written.

This is a big, good-looking book on a familiar subject yet it contains a substantial amount of material new to this reader. Few would have thought that so much fresh research would appear on Pearl Harbor 60 years later. I concur with most of the other review comments, but readers with a naval aviation orientation should know that Willmott has obtained a surprising amount of "nuts and bolts" material about the way the IJN worked its carriers. Tactical air ops, launch-recovery cycles, and other data will be relished by those of the tailhook persuasion. Similarly, the tables and appendices constitute a "one-stop shopping center" for IJN units and commanders in Operation Hawaii. Willmott's forte' is analysis, and his insightful comments at the tactical and strategic levels are well worth considering. In carrier terms, "Pearl Harbor" is an OK-3.

This commentary appears in its second printing to receive renewed recognition and attention for new audiences. The author analyzes the move of Japan to bomb Pearl Harbor in a title packed with black and white photos and in-depth coverage. If only one memoir of Pearl Harbor were to be purchased, this should top the list.