OK I was given a copy of this book by a friend.
It is a fascinating book detailing a little know, but at the same time misunderstood, event during the early part of the war in the Pacific. In most histories the raid receives only a passing mention, usually only commenting on the loss of so many valuable long range flying boats at one blow.
This book explains the background to the raid; Gives a detailed description of the event and then runs through of the aftermath. I was particularly interested in the description of the various allied personalities involved and the way their, often conflicting, objectives and perceptions affected events.
Finally the book includes detailed descriptions and very nice profiles of all, and I mean all, the aircraft types involved. This includes one of the best descriptions of the B-24A I have read. The authors also give naval and merchant vessels involved in the campaign, right down to local coastal craft commandeered for duty, the same treatment.
In conclusion this is a good book which takes a detailed look at a minor if important action. It is well written with excellent illustrations and maps. I really enjoyed it. It got me through two very unpleasant days spent in the clutches of the quacks.
Now the negative side. It is expensive; the cheapest copy I have seen on line was £40.00 GBP Would I pay that? Well I am not sure. If you can get it, second hand for instance, at a cheaper price I would say go for it. Otherwise try your local library.
Fatman
