The Greatest Generation

By: Tom Brokaw

Narrated by: Tom Brokaw

Length: 3 hrs and 42 mins

Publisher's summary

The instant classic that changed the way we saw World War II and an entire generation of Americans, from the beloved journalist whose own iconic career has lasted more than 50 years.

In this magnificent testament to a nation and her people, Tom Brokaw brings to life the extraordinary stories of a generation that gave new meaning to courage, sacrifice, and honor. From military heroes to community leaders to ordinary citizens, he profiles men and women who served their country with valor, then came home and transformed it: Senator Daniel Inouye, decorated at the front, fighting prejudice at home; Martha Settle Putney, one of the first black women to serve in the newly formed WACs; Charles Van Gorder, a doctor who set up a MASH-like medical facility in the middle of battle, then opened a small clinic in his hometown; Navy pilot and future president George H. W. Bush, assigned to read the mail of the enlisted men under him, who says that in doing so he “learned about life”; and many other laudable Americans. To this generation that gave so much and asked so little, Brokaw offers eloquent tribute in true stories of everyday heroes in extraordinary times.

Praise for The Greatest Generation:

“Moving... a tribute to the members of the World War II generation to whom we Americans and the world owe so much.” (The New York Times Book Review)

“Full of wonderful, wrenching tales of a generation of heroes. Tom Brokaw reminds us what we are capable of as a people. An inspiring read for those who wish their spirits lifted.” (Colin L. Powell)

“Offers welcome inspiration... It is impossible to read even a few of these accounts and not be touched by the book’s overarching message: We who followed this generation have lived in the midst of greatness.” (The Washington Times)

“Entirely compelling.” (The Wall Street Journal)

©1998 Tom Brokaw

A must read! More than worth your time!

Tom Brokaw has written and narrates an exceptional book here that I believe is a must-read for all Americans, and for that matter any Patriot of any country. I've always been appreciative of this country and the military personnel who protect us, but this book gave me details as to why I need to step up my effort and show my gratitude even more by the way I live my life.

it's amazing to me how this generation had less to give than any other yet they gave more than any other. All I can think is my generation has more than any other and we give less than any other. That changes with me today.

Well Written...Great Narration

What made the experience of listening to The Greatest Generation the most enjoyable?

Tom Brokaw did a great job of weaving in a variety of people and their experiences. Hopefully this book helps retain the memories of this truly Great Generation.

What about Tom Brokaw’s performance did you like?

Tom Brokaw is an excellent narrator.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I think the common thread of the veterans noting they felt they were/are owed nothing and their maintaining strong values and strong work ethics.

Fantastic!

Tom Brokaw gave a fitting tribute to the heroes of the WWII generation. This book is a collection of individual stories from ordinary citizens as well as national figures who gave so much to our country. However, this book does not gloss over the negative aspects of the racism of the time. Brokaw does not forget the struggles of African-Americans or the internment of Japanese-Americans. Finally, since Brokaw is the narrator, this book is easy to listen to due to his television voice.

Excellent book by Tom Browkaw

This is truly a magnificent book about America’s greatest generation. I belong to Smithsonian Associates and went to his lecture in Washington D.C. Please listen to this book and understand how hard this generation worked to support America.

Amazing

Absolutely amazing to hear the stories. Tom Brokaw does a great job bringing the stories of WWII to us. You can laugh, cry and be happy through the entire book.

Remember

My Father fought in WWII. His memory will never be forgotten, nor what he sacrificed for our right to be free.

Great book on America’s best generation

This is an excellent story narrated by it’s author! It’s one I’ve wanted to read for a long while and glad I got it! It makes you really appreciate the WWll generation of people and their straight forward love of country! Their hard work and sacrifice needed to hold families together at whatever the cost! The devotion to duty and country will never again be this strong in any following generation.

Enlightening

A co-worker recommended the is book. it is great read. It takes you through the perils of WW2 from those who lived it

everything was good except...

I understand context is important but even in tge right context, a white guy saying the n word is a bit wierd for me.

Should be required reading for students

Brokaw skillfully crafted this outstanding book, a collection of short stories which teaches important lessons of bravery, patriotism, responsibility, harsh reality and more.This generation did not focus on or even discuss the inhumanity and horror they experienced. Instead, they built this great and mighty post war nation and economy through their will and determination to make the world a better place for all. Important lessons for new generations