Dünkirchen 1940 by Robert Kershaw is a fascinating look at the battle and iconic (to the Allies) evacuation at Dunkirk through the eyes of the German.

Most history, especially popular history written for general readership, is presented from the perspective of the eventual winners. Even battles they lost are presented through a victorious lens. It is always interesting to get the other side of the story. Not just a couple of quotes to highlight the winner's version, but an actual account of the events from another perspective. That is what Kershaw offers the reader here.

What makes this of even greater interest is that the iconic evacuation was accompanied by, to Allied eyes, a curious strategical (perceived) error. By having a fuller picture from the German side, we learn the answers to our questions as well as a better understanding of what the larger plan was supposed to be.

The writing helps to make this not only an informative read but an enjoyable one as well. I always appreciate a writer who pays as much attention to engaging the reader as to presenting the facts.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley. ( )