• Home
  • About me
  • Contact information
  • Early Aviation / WW1
  • Airlines and Airliners
  • Biographies (aviation) / Historical Accounts
  • Aviation - WW2
  • Aircam /Arco / Aero publications
  • Jane's / Observer's Books
  • Profile Publications / Camouflage and Markings
  • Post 1945 - Jet aircraft
  • Modelling
  • Naval Categories /Biographies
  • Military Pre 1900 / WW1 / North America/Napoleonic/N. America
  • Ethiopia, Spanish Civil War, Other Misc.
  • World War 2 - General, Ballantine Books
  • Official Histories - British and Commonwealth
  • Biographies (Military)
  • Unit Histories - Allied and Axis
  • Armour / Artillery
  • North Africa / Tunisia / Middle East
  • Malta, Mediterranean, Balkans, Greece
  • Italian Campaign
  • Normandy and Europe

[email protected]                      416.522.6287


official histories - British and Commonwealth

​(ALSO: VICHY/ FREE FRENCH, WAR CORRESPONDENTS)

British

541          BRITISH INTELLIGENCE IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR – VOL.3, PART 1                                                   65.00
                HINSLEY, F.H. ET. AL.  1ST. ED. 1984.  HMSO, 693 PP.
                ISBN 0-11-630935-0
A FULL AND COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION OF THE ROLE OF BRITISH INTELLIGENCE IN WW2.  IT IS PART OF AN OFFICIAL HISTORY USING NEWLY DECLASSIFIED MATERIAL AND DOCUMENTS.  THIS VOLUME COVERS THE PERIOD FROM JUNE 1943 TO THE SUMMER OF 1944. THE MEDITERRANEAN CAMPAIGNS TO THE CAPTURE OF ROME, THE U BOAT AND SURFACE CAMPAIGNS IN THE ATLANTIC AND THE AIR WAR IN EUROPE AND THE SEARCH FOR THE V WEAPONS ARE DOCUMENTED.  AN OUTSTANDING REFERENCE.  COLOUR MAPS THROUGHOUT. HARDBOUND WITH D/J.  SEVERAL SIGNATURES OF THE ORIGINAL OWNER IN INK ARE ON THE FLYLEAF. OTHERWISE IN EXCELLENT CONDITION.

590          History of the Second World War – Mediterranean and the Middle East – vol. 1                75.00
                Playfair, I.S.O. et. al.  1st. ed. 1954, HMSO.  506 pp.
The first volume of the British Official History of the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern campaigns.  Covers the early successes against the Italians in Ethiopia and Libya and the Vichy French in the Middle East.  Many maps and over 50 photos.  (Volume originally owned by C.P. Stacey the Official Canadian historian.  His signature on flyleaf in pencil.  Notes and checkmarks throughout book and a summary of his research in his hand on rear flyleaf.  All in pencil.  Left in place for historical reference.)  Hardbound with d/j.  D/j has browned and has a few chips.  very Good condition.
 
591          History of the Second World War – Mediterranean and the Middle East – vol. 2                75.00
                Playfair, I.S.O. et. al.  1st. ed. 1956, HMSO.  392 pp.
The second volume of the British Official History.  It covers the arrival of the Germans, the attacks on Malta and the reversals in Libya and the intervention in Iraq. Several maps and photos throughout.  (Volume originally owned by C.P. Stacey the Official Canadian historian.  His signature on flyleaf in pencil.  Notes and check marks throughout book and a summary in his hand on rear flyleaf.  All in pencil.  Left in place for historical reference).  Hardbound with d/j.  D/j has browned but no losses.  very Good condition.
 
592          History of the Second World War – Mediterranean and the Middle East – vol. 5                85.00
                Molony, C.J.C. et. al.  1st. ed. 1973, HMSO.  921 pp.
The fifth volume of a total of six the British Official History of the Mediterranean and Middle East campaigns.  This one covers the Sicilian and Italian campaigns in 1943 up to the Battles of Cassino.  Many maps in colour and illustrations.  Photos throughout.  Hardbound with d/j.  Excellent condition. 

1404   history of the second world war - grand strategy, vol. 3, part 1.                                         45.00
             gwyer, j.m.a.  1st. ed. 1964.  hmso. 401 pp.
this volume describes the german invasion of russia in june 1941 and a description of the american resonse to the japanese expansion into the pacific.  the germans were about to be halted in egypt and the initiative was slowly moving to the allies.  the raf bombing campaign is covered and the strength of the growing anglo american alliance.  maps and illustrations.  hardbound with d/j.  very minor chips to d/j.  Excellent condition.

1405   History of the second world war - grand strategy, vol. 3, part 2.                                           45.00
            butler, j.r.m.  1st. ed. 1964.  377 pp.
a continuation of the events from june 1941 to august 1942 in part 1 above.  stalingrad is being fought over and the german offensive grinds to a halt, the u-boats are not yet fully mastered, but german losses are mounting with the RN and RCn gaining the advantage. the bombing of germany continues although results aren't yet as hoped and the failure to prepare in the far east is  examined.  maps and illustrations.  hardbound with d/j.  some small tears in d/j.  excellent condition.

1406    history of the second world war - grand strategy, vol 6.                                                            45.00
             ehrman, j.  1st. ed. 1956.  421 pp.
this volume (the last in the series) covers the 1944 period in the culmination of the grand strategy to defeat the axis powers.  the allies offensive in france is slowed until early 1945 when germany is finally defeated.  there is growing urgency and discussion of post war policy and in the far east, the burma campaign is finally pushing the japanese back.   hardbound with d/j.  once upper corner has a minor bump.  excellent condition.

1407     history of the second world war - the war against japan, vol. 2                                           50.00
              woodburn kirby, s. maj.gen., et. al.   1st .ed. 1958.  541 pp.
the second of five volumes, the views of british commanders in the far east are the basis of this book.  burma and singapore has been lost and there is no reinforcements are available. the royal navy's eastern fleet suffered a huge blow losing hms repulse and prince of wales and air attacks on ceylon and there are threats to india.   there are plans to recapture burma, but the new armies must be trained and resources are scare.   photos and maps.  hardbound with d/j.  the edges of the maps stick our from the book and are bent, but there are no losses.  very good condition.

1408     history of the second world war - the war agains japan, vol. 3                                               50.00
              woodburn kirby, s.  maj. gen., et. al.  1st. ed. 1961.  559 pp.
this volume describes the events between august 1943 and august 1944.  a supreme commandere is appointed for the far east, mountbatten, and he charged with co-ordinating allied efforts in the region. myitkyina is recaptured and the japanese are checked finally.  the exploits of the chindits are covered and the formation of the 14th army under General slim who defeats the japanese army decisively at arakan, kohima and imphal.  it's the turning point in south east asia.   photos, maps and illustrations. hardbound with d/j.  excellent condition.

1403    History of the Second World War - victory in the west, vol. 1 - the battle of normandy                                       50.00
              ellis, l.f. maj.  1st. ed. 1962, hmso.  595 pp.
The first volume of the beginning of the normandy campaign and liberation of europe.  This volume describes the extensive build up of resourses and men along with the logistics of the largest seaborne invasion in history.  many maps, illistrations and photos.  Hardbound with d/j.  some small tears in d/j.  Excellent condition.


659         Special Forces in the Desert War – 1940-43                                                         25.00
                Wynter, H.W.  1st.ed. 2001.  Imperial War Museum, 440 pp.
                ISBN 1-903365-29-5
This is a reprint of official wartime documents recording the formation and use of the LRDG and the Commandos and other special forces (SAS, etc.).  The dates of operations, units involved and outcomes are fully covered.  An excellent reference.  Maps.  Hardbound with d/j.  Near mint condition.

canadian

474         OFFICIAL HISTORY OF THE CANADIAN ARMY IN WW 2
            VOL. 1.  SIX YEARS OF WAR – ARMY IN CANADA, BRITAIN AND THE PACIFIC.                 70.00
                STACEY, C.P. 1ST. ED.  1955, QUEEN’S PRINTER, 629 PP.
A MORE COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION OF THE HISTORY OF THE CANADIAN ARMY BY THE OFFICIAL HISTORIAN EXPANDING ON THE AUTHORS “CANADIAN ARMY 1939-1945” (LISTING 450).  THIS VOLUME COVERS HOME DEFENCE DEPLOYMENTS, THOSE TO THE PACIFIC AND NEWFOUNDLAND.  THE LATER VOLUMES DEAL WITH THE MAJOR CAMPAIGNS IN ITALY AND EUROPE.  PHOTOS AND COLOUR MAPS AND REPRODUCTIONS OF ARTWORKS. HARDBOUND WITH D/J.  D/J HAS SOME CHIPS AND SMALL LOSSES, BUT NOW PROTECTED WITH PLASTIC COVERING.  VERY GOOD CONDITION. RARE AND HARD TO FIND THESE VOLUMES. (SEE ALSO LISTING 450 AND 396)
 
396         OFFICIAL HISTORY OF THE CANADIAN ARMY IN WW 2
            VOL. 2. CANADIANS IN ITALY                                                                                    70.00
                NICHOLSON, G.W.L.  1ST. ED. 1958, QUEEN’S PRINTER, 807 PP.
THE OFFICIAL HISTORY OF THE CANADIAN ARMY IN ITALY WRITTEN BY THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE HISTORICAL SECTION OF THE GENERAL STAFF.  THE BOOK COVERS EVERY ASPECT OF THE CANADIAN PARTICIPATION IN THE CAMPAIGN AND IS A VITAL REFERENCE.  PROFUSELY ILLUSTRATED WITH PHOTOS, COLOUR MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS.   HARDBOUND WITH D/J.  D/J HAS SOME SMALL LOSS AT TOP OF SPINE AND SOME CHIPS AND STAINING.  OTHERWISE IN EXCELLENT CONDITION.  RARE AND HARD TO FIND BOOK. (SEE ALSO NO. 450, 474)

Australia

555          Alamein – The Australian Story                                                                            30.00
                Johnston, Mark & Peter Stanley.  1st.ed. 2002, Oxford University Press, 314 pp.
                ISBN 0 19 551630 3
An official history published by the Australian Army History Series of the role played by the Australian 9th. Division at Alamein. Well documented and every aspect of the battle is covered.  Also a section on whether Gen. Morshed should have been given the command of 30 Corps instead of Leese which became an irritant with Montgomery.  Many photos and maps. Hardbound with d/j, near mint condition. (see also 557, Morshed from the same series.) 

600          Anzacs into Battle                                                                                                  25.00
                Hole, Tahu.  1st.ed. 1943, Hodder and Stoughton, 472 pp.
An early examination of the Australian and New Zealand war effort on land, sea and air.  Covers the campaigns in Libya, Egypt, Syria, Greece and the rest of the Mediterranean.  The early battles against the Japanese and the preparations on the home front are also covered.  Photos, most not published elsewhere.  Hardbound with d/j.  D/j has some losses and stains, otherwise book in very good condition.

669          Australia in the War of 1939-1945 – Vol. 1. To Benghazi                                   80.00
                Long, Gavin.  Revised ed. 1961. Advertiser Publishing, 336 pp.
The first volume of the official history of the Australian army in WW2.  This volume covers the early battles in North Africa in 1940 where the Australians were so prominent. Photos and coloured maps throughout. A rare book.  Hardbound with d/j.  Some small chips to d/j Very good condition.
 
668          Australia in the War of 1939-1945- Vol. 3 Tobruk and El Alamein.                   95.00
                Maughan, Barton. 1st. ed. 1966. Advertiser Publishing, 854 pp.
Volume 3 of the official history of the Australian army in WW2.  Covers the remainder of the North African campaigns and two of Australia’s greatest triumphs, the defence of Tobruk and the defeat of Rommel at El Alamein. Hardbound with d/j. Some very small rubbing on d/j and original owner’s signature in ink on inside cover. Excellent condition.  
 
671         Australia in the War of 1939-1945 – Vol. 3. Air War against Germany and Italy               85.00
                Herington, John. 1st. ed. 1954. Advertising Publishing, 731 pp.
The third volume of the official history of the Australian Air Force in WW2. This volume covers the operations of squadrons in Britain and airman in the RAF as well as operations in the Mediterranean and Italy.  Hardbound with d/j. Some rubbing and one small tear on d/j, otherwise in excellent condition. 

534         Digger – Story of the Australian Soldier                                                               30.00
                Laffin, John. 1st. ed. 1959. Cassel and Co., 243 pp.
A history of the Australian soldier and their reputation for toughness and courage.  He also delves into their unique sense of duty, humour and sometime eccentric behavior. He starts in South Africa and ends in the Second World War in North Africa and New Guinea.  A fine tribute.  Photos.  Hardbound with d/j.  D/j has a small loss on bottom of spine, otherwise in excellent condition. 

557         Morshed – Hero of Tobruk and Alamein                                                               30.00
                Coombes, David.  1st. ed. 2001, Oxford University Press, 308 pp.
                ISBN 0-19-551398-3
A fine biography from the Australian Army History of the most famous Australian generals.  Not popular with other officers or men he commanded he nevertheless proved to be a fine and determined commander.  His defence of Tobruk cemented his reputation. Many photos and maps.  Hardbound with d/j. Mint condition. (see also 555 from same series) 
 
556         Illustrated History of Australia at War 1939-45 (5 Volumes)                              200.00
                Bartlett, Norman (ed.).  1st. ed. 1958.  Halsted Press. 256 pp. per volume
As the name implies, these volumes are full of photos with captions covering all the campaigns fought by Australian army, naval and air force units.  Most of the photos are not published elsewhere so are an excellent reference.  Hardbound, no d/j.  All volumes have minor bumps to spines and corners, but are in excellent shape.  

new zealand

682        FREYBERG, VC. – THE MAN 1939-45                                                                       30.00
                STEVENS, W.G.  1ST. ED. 1965.  REED PUBLISHERS, 130 PP.
THE BIOGRAPHY OF NEW ZEALAND’S MOST FAMOUS GENERAL.  HIGHLY DECORATED IN THE FIRST WORLD WAR HE ROSE TO COMMAND THE NEW ZEALAND DIVISION IN NORTH AFRICA AND ITALY.  DESPITE BEING WOUNDED SEVERAL TIMES, HE REMAINED A TOUGH AND RESPECTED COMMANDER.  PHOTOS. HARDBOUND WITH D/J. VERY GOOD CONDITION.

994            new zealand in the second world war  -  bardia to enfidaville                                                 90.00
                   stevens, w.g.  1st. ed. 1962.  b.e. owen, government printer,   416 pp.
this is one of a series of volumes that provide the complete story of new zealand armed forces in w.w. 2.  this volume covers the advance of the N.z. 2nd division across libya to tunisia until the final defeat of the afrika korps.  new zealanders gained and outstanding record for professionalism and determination unmatched in w.w.2.  photos and maps.  hard to find these books now.  hardbound with d/j.  d/j has some chips and small losses, signature of previous owner on flyleaf.  otherwise in very good condition.

995            NEW ZEALAND IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR  -  the relief of tobruk                                      90.00
                   murphy, w.e..  1ST. ED. 1961. B E. OWEN GOVERNMENT PRINTER,  566 PP

THIS IS ONE OF A SERIES OF VOLUMES THAT PROVIDE THE COMPLETE STORY OF NEW ZEALAND ARMED FORCES IN W.W. 2.  THIS VOLUME COVERS THE N.Z. DIVISIONS ROLE IN the crusader battles and the 10 furious days of fighting that finally saw the link up between the new zealanders and the tobruk garrison.  shortly afterwards, the gazala line was lost and the division retreated to el alamein.  photos and maps. hardbound with d/j.  d/j has some losses.  signature of original owner on flyleaf.  very good condition.  

south africa

683          PIENAAR OF ALAMEIN                                                                                                30.00
                POLLOCK, A.M.  1ST. ED. 1944.  CAPE TIMES LTD, 141 PP.
THE BIOGRAPHY OF SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST CELEBRATED GENERAL.  COMMANDING FIRST IN EAST AFRICA, HE TOOK COMMAND OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN DIVISION IN THE NORTH AFRICAN DESERT AND AT ALAMEIN.  FOLLOWING THE CAPTURE OF SOUTH AFRICANS AT TOBRUK, HE WAS ALWAYS AWARE OF HIS GOVERNMENTS PRESSURE NOT LOSE ANY LARGE FORMATION OF TROOPS AGAIN, MAKING THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS LIMITED IN THE OVERALL EFFORT TO DEFEAT ROMMEL. PIENAAR MANAGED TO JUGGLE BOTH INTERESTS.  PHOTOS. HARDBOUND WITH D/J. EXCELLENT CONDITION. ​

684          Retreat to Victory                                                                                                  35.00
                Brown, James Ambrose.  1st.ed. 1991.  Ashanti Publishing, 300 pp.
                ISBN 1-874800-24-3
An interesting account by a soldier in the South African army on its role from the Gazala battles until the victory at El Alamein.  Author became a writer of the official histories of South African forces during the war.  Photos throughout, maps and illustrations.  Hardbound with d/j. Excellent condition.
​
680        Sidi Rezeg Battles 1941                                                                                         100.00
                Agar-Hamilton, J. & L. Turner. 1st. ed. 1957, Oxford Press, 505 pp.
An official history of the 1st. South African Division and South African Air Force during the “Crusader” offensive to relieve Tobruk. It covers the military strengths and weaknesses of the combatants and the leadership issues emphasising the involvement of the South Africans in the battles. Photos and maps. A rare book. Hardbound with d/j. Front flyleaf has a split and original owner’s signature in ink.  Very good condition.

829        south African Forces in WW2 – Vol. 1. East Africa and Abyssinia                      95.00
                Orpen, Neil. 1st. ed. 1968. Purnell and Sons, 390 pp.
The first volume of the Official History of South African forces covers the campaigns in East Africa and Abyssinia.  SA forces played a key role in these early battles and are fully documented here. Photos and maps.  Hardbound with d/j.  D/j has some small chips on spine. Signature of original owner on flyleaf, otherwise in excellent condition.

830          South African Forces in WW2 - Vol 3 - War in the Desert                                   95.00
                Orpen, Neil.  1st. ed. 1971.  Purnell and Sons, 537 pp.
                ISBN 0-360-00151-3
The third volume of the Official History on South African forces deals with the battles in North Africa.  The growth and expanding role of South Africans is covered with a background look into political issues. The defeat and loss of a division at Tobruk is re-examined with new documents. Their role at Alamein is also highlighted as well and the struggles maintaining strength with a purely volunteer force.  Photos and maps.  Hardbound with d/j.  Signature of original owner in ink on flyleaf.  Otherwise in excellent condition.   
 
831          South African Forces in WW2 - Vol 4 – Eagle Strikes                                           95.00
                Brown, James A.  1st ed. 1974. Purnell and Sons, 448 pp.
                ISBN 0-360-00196-3
The 4th volume of the Official History covers the exploits of the units in Greece and Crete and then in the Desert Air Force in North Africa. Later battles in Madagascar are included as well.  The expansion and growth of the SAAF and developing a tactical air force is explored as well.  Hardbound with d/j. D/j has some ships on the spine and edges, otherwise in excellent condition.
 
832          South African Forces in WW2 - Vol 6 – Eagle Strikes                                           95.00
                Martin, H.J. & Orpen, N. 1st. ed. 1977. Purnell and Sons, 494 pp.
                ISBN 0-86843-008-0
This volume details the widespread use of SAAF squadrons in Tunisia and then other campaigns in the Mediterranean in Sicily and the Aegean.  The SAAF remained in Italy right up to the end of the war with 28 squadrons employed despite other South African troops only serving in Africa, so their contributions were considerable.  Photos and maps.  Hardbound with d/j. Small booksellers sticker inside front cover and d/j has some chips and scuffs. The former owner's heartfelt dedication to his son in ink on “dedication” page.  Otherwise in excellent condition.


fighting french / vichy french

527          ALLIES AT WAR                                                                                                           30.00
                BERTHON, SIMON.  1ST. ED. 2001.  CARROL & GRAF, 354 PP.
                ISBN 0-7867-0949-9
THE STORY OF CHURCHILL AND ROOSEVELT’S OFTEN TROUBLED RELATIONSHIP WITH DE GAULLE.  CHURCHILL WAS ADMIRING AT FIRST BUT DE GAULLE’S ANTI-BRITISH ATTITUDES, AND INSISTENCE ON HE ALONE REPRESENTING FRANCE SOURED THEIR DEALINGS.  ROOSEVELT WAS HAPPY TO TALK WITH THE VICHY FRENCH IF IT SERVED HIS POLITICAL AGENDA AND IGNORED DE GAULLE ENTIRELY UNTIL VERY LATE IN THE WAR. A VERY INSIGHTFUL BOOK. PHOTOS.  HARDBOUND WITH D/J.  NEAR MINT CONDITION.

​544        ASSASSINATION IN ALGIERS                                                                                         25.00
                VERRIER, ANTHONY.  1ST. ED. 1990, W.W. NORTON & CO.  302 PP.
AN EXAMINATION OF THE COMPLEX RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ROOSEVELT, CHURCHILL AND DEGAULLE IN THEIR DEALINGS WITH ADMIRAL DARLAN PRIOR TO THE NORTH AFRICAN LANDINGS.  DARLAN’S ASSASSINATION SOLVED ONE PROBLEM BUT THE ALLIES STILL HAD DEGAULLE TO MANAGE.  PHOTOS AND MAPS.  HARDBOUND WITH D/J.  EXCELLENT CONDITION.

338         BIR HAKIM                                                                                                               5.00
                HOLMES, RICHARD.  BALLANTINE BOOKS, 1ST. ED. 1971. 160 PP.
BALLANTINE BATTLE BOOK, NO. 23.  THE STORY OF THE FREE FRENCH ARMY’S DEFENSE OF A KEY POSITION IN THE GAZALA LINE.  AFTER BITTER FIGHTING WITH THE AFRIKA KORPS THE FORCE WAS ABLE TO WITHDRAW ALONG WITH THE REST OF THE BRITISH ARMY AND RESTORE SOME OF FRANCE’S MILITARY HONOUR.  MANY PHOTOS, MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS. CARD COVERS. SOME SCUFFS AND FOLD ON FRONT COVER.  TAPE ON BOTTOM OF SPINE WITH A MARKING DOT. (NOT A REPAIR). GOOD CONDITION.

546          THE FIGHTING FRENCH                                                                                              30.00
                AGLION, RAOUL.  1ST. ED. 1943.  HENRY HOLT AND CO.  315 PP.
A SYMPATHETIC BOOK AIMED AT THE AMERICAN MARKET HIGHLIGHTING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE FRENCH FIGHTING ALONGSIDE THE ALLIES AND DENOUNCING THE VICHY GOVERNMENT AS ‘DEFEATISTS’.  A NICE PROPAGANDA PIECE TO SWAY U.S. OPINION WHEN ITS GOVERNMENT WAS IN MANY RESPECTS PREPARED TO DEAL WITH VICHY.  SEVERAL PHOTOS THROUGHOUT. HARDBOUND, NO D/J.  ORIGINAL OWNERS NAME AND ADDRESS ON FLYLEAF IN INK.  VERY GOOD CONDITION.

521        the GENERALS WEAR CORK HATS                                                                                      20.00
               BURMAN, BEN LUCIEN.  1ST. ED. 1963, 258 PP.
WRITTEN BY A NEWSPAPER CORRESPONDENT COVERING THE FREE FRENCH FORCES IN AFRICA.  HE HAS A MIXED REACTION TO DE GAULLE REPRESENTING A FREE FRENCH NATION AND HIS OFTEN TEMPESTUOUS RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE AMERICANS AND BRITAIN.  TOLD IN A JOURNALIST STYLE, IT CONVEYS HIS OBSERVATIONS VERY WELL.  PHOTOS AND OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS.  HARDBOUND, NO D/J.  SPINE HAS A SMALL TEAR ON TOP END. NO LOSSES. OTHERWISE IN VERY GOOD CONDITION.  ​

543          LA VICTOIRE EN EGYPTE                                                                                            10.00
                NO AUTHOR, NO DATE (CIRCA 1942), 32 PP.
A WARTIME BOOKLET (5”X 4”) PRINTED IN FRENCH COVERING THE VICTORY IN MALTA, EGYPT AND FRENCH NORTH AFRICA.  THE FIGHTING FRENCH PARTICIPATION IS HIGHLIGHTED.  PHOTOS ON EVERY PAGE.  PAPER COVERS. SOME RUBS ON SPINE. STAPLED IN CENTERFOLD, SOME RUST SPOTS. SMALL LOSS ON REAR COVER.  VERY GOOD CONDITION.

​545        MURDER OF ADMIRAL DARLAN                                                                         20.00
                TOMPKINS, PETER.  1ST. ED. 1965. SIMON & SCHUSTER, 287 PP.
THE STORY OF THE VICHY FRENCH COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE FRENCH FLEET IN NORTH AFRICA. AN IMPORTANT THOUGH CONTROVERSIAL AND COMPLEX INDIVIDUAL UP TO AND INCLUDING THE INVASION OF NORTH AFRICA. HE WAS PREPARED TO NEGOTIATE WITH THE ALLIES AND STILL REMAIN LOYAL TO VICHY PLEASING NEITHER SIDE FULLY.  HIS ASSASSINATION WAS VIEWED BY SOME AS A FITTING END TO HIS MURKY DEALINGS.  PHOTOS AND MAPS.  HARDBOUND WITH D/J.  SOME CHIPS TO D/J, OTHERWISE IN VERY GOOD CONDITION.

543          NORTH AFRICAN LANDINGS 1942                                                                                15.00
                SAINSBURY, KEITH. 1ST.ED. 1976. DAVIS-POYNTER PRINTING, 215 PP.
                ISBN 0-7067-0186-0
A FULL ANALYSIS OF THE POLITICAL AND MILITARY PRESSURES LEADING TO THE DECISIONS IN BRITAIN AND THE USA TO INVADE FRENCH NORTH AFRICA.  THE COMPLICATED DEALINGS WITH THE VICHY FRENCH AND DEGAULLE ARE ALSO EXAMINED.  AN EXCELLENT ACCOUNT OF STRATEGY AS A CRUCIAL POINT IN THE WAR.  HARDBOUND WITH D/J.  EXCELLENT CONDITION.

547         Out of the Sand – The Epic story of General LeClerc                                          30.00
                Maule, Henry.  1st. ed. 1966. Odhams Books, 288 pp.
A biography of one of the Free French’s best generals.  Using an assumed name to protect his family in France, he raised an army in Chad that moved north to fight with the British and later the Americans. After Normandy, he liberated Paris as part of the American army angering DeGaulle who wanted a “French army” to be the liberators.  He believed however, France’s long term interests would be better served with the allies. Many photos. Hardbound with d/j. Some chips to spine of d/j, otherwise in very good condition.

​614        TOMORROW TO BE BRAVE                                                                                          15.00
                TRAVERS, SUSAN.  2000, RANDOM HOUSE, 287 PP.
                ISBN 0-593-04685-4
THE REMARKABLE STORY OF A BRITISH born WOMAN WHO SERVED IN THE FOREIGN LEGION.  WHEN SHE WAS YOUNG HER PARENTS MOVED TO FRANCE.  TRAINED AS A NURSE, SHE JOINED THE FRENCH RED CROSS AND WAS STATIONED IN FINLAND AND LATER NORTH AFRICA.  ATTACHED TO THE FOREIGN LEGION AT BIR HAKEIM SHE SERVED AS GENERAL KOENIG’S DRIVER AND SHE DROVE HIM LEADING A CONVOY WHEN THE LEGION BROKE OUT AND ESCAPED. CALLED A HEROINE, SHE WAS AWARDED THE LEGION OF HONOUR AND MEDAILLE MILITARE. PHOTOS.  CARD COVERS.  NEAR MINT CONDITION.

​​War Correspondents – Memoirs / Descriptions
 
485          African Trilogy                                                                                                       20.00
                Moorehead, Alan. 1st. ed. 1944, Hamish Hamilton, 592 pp.
Moorehead was a correspondent who chronicled the war in the Mediterranean and North Africa.  Three of his most notable books are combined in this volume (Mediterranean Front, A Year of Battle, End in Africa-see listing 479).  His observations and clear writing of the political situation, the Generals, the defeats and victories still stand the test of time.  Hardbound, no d/j. Sun fade on spine and to top of endplates.  Good condition.

791         AIRBORNE INVASION – STORY OF THE BATTLE OF CRETE                                  15.00
                HETHERINGTON, JOHN. 1ST. ED. 1944. GEO. ALLEN & UNWIN, 166 PP.
AN EARLY WARTIME DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTLE OF CRETE BY A WAR CORRESPONDENT. IT IS A VERY REASONABLE ASSESSMENT OF THE WHY THE ALLIES WERE DEFEATED AND THE GERMAN DIFFICULTIES THAT HOLDS UP DESPITE NOT HAVING ACCESS TO POST WAR DOCUMENTS.  A WAR QUALITY PAPER PRINTING.  HARDBOUND, NO D/J.  CORNERS BUMPED AND SPINE RUBBED. SIGNATURE IN INK ON INSIDE COVER. GOOD CONDITION OTHERWISE. ​ 

550        conquest of North Africa 1940-43                                                             15.00
                Clifford, Alexander.  1st. ed. 1943, Little, Brown &Co.  450 pp.
The story of the entire North African campaign shortly after it ended by a distinguished war correspondent.  A keen observer of events and his analysis still stands up to modern historical examination. Several maps and diagrams drawn by the author.  Hardbound, no d/j.  Some bumps to spine and ex-library copy with Discard stamp on title page. Also a sticker of a later owner on flyleaf. Otherwise in very good condition. (see 551 by same author)
 
479          End in Africa                                                                                                          15.00
                Moorehead, Alan.  1944 (reprint), Hamish Hamilton, 209 pp.
The 3rd. book in a trilogy of writings by a war correspondent whose eyewitness accounts are vivid and insightful.  This book covers primarily the Tunisian campaign and the final defeat of the Axis in North Africa. (see 485 for full trilogy).  Hardbound with d/j.  D/j has small loss on spine but now protected. Book has some foxing.  Good condition.

565         Honour for All                                                                                                        10.00
                Michie, Allan. 1st. ed. 1946, George Allan & Unwin Ltd. 218 pp.
A war correspondents stories of key events of WW2.  Particular focus is on the SAS, LRDG, Orde Wingate and specialist units such as paratroopers. Written primarily for Readers Digest, each chapter is short and to the point.  Photos.  Hardbound, no d/j. Spine is bumped top and bottom and a small tear at the bottom.  Good condition.

531         Jordan’s Tunis Diary                                                                                             15.00
                Jordan, Phillip.  1st. ed. 1943. Collins Press, 256 pp.
A wartime publication by a journalist working for the News Chronicle.  He was attached to the British 78th. Division (to whom he dedicated his book) during the Tunisian campaign and gives an often caustic and critical viewpoint on the political players including the British, Americans, the Vichy French and their leaders.  The book publishers note that it has been ‘censored’ prior to being issued, so what was removed??  Hardbound, no d/j.  Printed on poorer quality paper and covers have been bumped and a bit faded.  Good condition.
 
559         Nine Rivers from Jordan                                                                                       30.00
                Johnston, Denis.  1st. ed. 1953. Derek Verschoyle, 455 pp.
The wartime experiences of a BBC correspondent covering the campaigns in North Africa and Italy with the British and later in France with the Americans.  The book is unusual in that the author tells his story in both a physical and spiritual way inserting poetry and song lyrics trying to understand what war was trying to accomplish.  Hardbound with d/j. Some chips to spine of d/j, but now protected.  Very good condition.

790         R.A.M.C.                                                                                                                 20.00
                Cotterell, Anthony.  1st. ed. 1944, Hutcheson & Co. 116 pp.
An interesting account by a writer on the workings of the Medical Corps mostly observed in Africa.  Often overlooked, the author points out there were more casualties to disease, dental issues and incidental injuries than to enemy action.  The RAMC worked to minimize these problems. Ironically, the author was captured in Normandy and then wounded trying to escape. He died in a German hospital. Photos. Hardbound with d/j. D/j has some chips and losses but is now protected
​
612         Speaking from the Desert                                                                                      15.00
                Talbot, Godfrey.  C.1943, Hutchison & Co., 153 pp.
A record of the British 8th. Army in North Africa by a BBC reporter.  This documents his hasty assignment to North Africa and his various broadcasts starting with Alexander and Montgomery at El Alamein up to final victory in Tunisia.  Photos and illustrations.  Hardbound, no d/j.  Spine darkened and lettering very faded.  Top and bottom of spine have some small bumps.  Good condition.  
 
551          Three Against Rommel                                                                                          15.00
                Clifford, Alexander. Reprint 1944, Harrop & Co. 427 pp.
A distinguished war correspondent's examination of the campaigns of three generals, Wavell, Auchinleck and Alexander in North Africa. He was very much in the heat of the action and tells of his escapes from the Germans adding personal drama to the larger events.  Hardbound, no d/j. Spine has some soiling and slight fading.  Flyleaf has stamps of ownership from the Amalgamated Press and a pen notation “I Was There Library” on flyleaf.  Very good condition.


Proudly powered by Weebly
  • Home
  • About me
  • Contact information
  • Early Aviation / WW1
  • Airlines and Airliners
  • Biographies (aviation) / Historical Accounts
  • Aviation - WW2
  • Aircam /Arco / Aero publications
  • Jane's / Observer's Books
  • Profile Publications / Camouflage and Markings
  • Post 1945 - Jet aircraft
  • Modelling
  • Naval Categories /Biographies
  • Military Pre 1900 / WW1 / North America/Napoleonic/N. America
  • Ethiopia, Spanish Civil War, Other Misc.
  • World War 2 - General, Ballantine Books
  • Official Histories - British and Commonwealth
  • Biographies (Military)
  • Unit Histories - Allied and Axis
  • Armour / Artillery
  • North Africa / Tunisia / Middle East
  • Malta, Mediterranean, Balkans, Greece
  • Italian Campaign
  • Normandy and Europe