The campaign for Guadalcanal;: A battle that made history

I have a dozen books on Guadalcanal and this is my favorite. Mr Cogins was an artist and his book is filled with terrific artwork thats interesting as well as informing. Tanks, airplanes, ships, landing craft, depth charges, torpedoes, weapons, uniforms, etc are illustrated and described. Every key engagement, whether on land or sea is described in concise detail. There is an easy to follow map for each of these engagements that is really helpful that adds to the narrative. A very decent chronology is also included that summarizes the events of the campaign. Even if you already have Hammel, Frank, Griffith, Hoyt, Smith, Newcomb, this book by Jack Coggins will add to your experience. Mr Coggins also has an illustrated book on the North Africa campaign that is also very good.

Jack Coggins' THE CAMPAIGN FOR GUADALCANAL is of a type never seen anymore. Every page is illustrated with drawings and/or maps-- there's not a single photo, yet they're not at all missed. This oversized book is printed in two columns per page. Events that precipitated the clash over the strategically vital Solomon Island are covered in detail. Drawings of military equipment (planes, ships, armored vehicles, transports, etc.) for both sides are provided along with specs that allow the reader to determine at a glance which of two might have the edge in battle. Motivations and military options are discussed; task forces are broken down into individual components. Simplified maps include clearly defined positions along with troop, ship or plane movements. The author's expressed desire to educate any newcomer to this battle's history is superbly realized through his concise text and unparalleled ability to make understandable potentially complicated material. Highest recommendation for anyone interested in military history!

For WWII aficionados, this book is a great addition to your collection. I first came across it in the library and was rewarded with rich detail of this important military campaign. Great insights into the strategic ramifications of the battle as well as the small details of both the US and Japanese men, equipment and tactics. There are abundant maps, drawings and sidebar discussions of related topics (like how to aim artillery if you cannot see the target, how to land a plane on a carrier, etc). Two thumbs up. It is a shame books like this have fallen off the radar.