one of the best books on this oft-written topic of the Great Wars. P.J.B marvelously details the events while simultaneously commenting on the wisdom/folly or the possible reasons behind actions of the decision-makers. What makes this book more authentic is the fact that author doesn't speculate about the intentions of those decision-makers, rather provides references from the great historians.

'The Unnecessary War' shatters many popular myths about the war between right and wrong, Democrats and Fascists, rather stating that it was at some level a war of egos. The author dismisses the 'moral high ground' often attributed to the Allies, denouncing the whole WW2 as some pre-planned conception of Hitler's evil genius and stating that Hitler actually wanted to avoid war with the West at all costs.

P.J.B also scrutinizes the 'indispensable' role of Winston Churchill in winning the war for the Britain, stating that if Churchill is responsible for winning the war, he is also responsible for bringing down the British Empire. The Great Man with his ambivalent and aggressive personality proposed going to war rather enthusiastically at the expense of millions of civilians (and strategic wisdom).

The book is an excellent, knowledgeable, interesting and unbiased read and is recommended to anyone interested in history. ( )

Excellent, well documented, takes gloss off of Winnie.