This Kind of War

The Classic Korean War History

By: T. R. Fehrenbach

Narrated by: Kevin Foley

Length: 24 hrs and 26 mins

Publisher's summary

This Kind of War is a monumental study of the conflict that began in June 1950. Successive generations of U.S. military officers have considered this book an indispensable part of their education. T. R. Fehrenbach's narrative brings to life the harrowing and bloody battles that were fought up and down the Korean Peninsula.

Partly drawn from official records, operations journals, and histories, it is based largely on the compelling personal narratives of the small-unit commanders and their troops. Unlike any other work on the Korean War, it provides a clear, panoramic view; sharp insight into the successes and failures of U.S. forces; and a riveting account of fierce clashes between U.N. troops and the North Korean and Chinese communist invaders.

The lessons that Colonel Fehrenbach identifies still resonate. Severe peacetime budget cuts after World War II left the U.S. military a shadow of its former self. The terrible lesson of Korea was that to send into action troops trained for nothing but "serving a hitch" in some quiet billet was an almost criminal act. Throwing these ill-trained and poorly equipped troops into the heat of battle resulted in the war's early routs. The United States was simply unprepared for war. As we enter a new century with Americans and North Koreans continuing to face each other across the 38th parallel, we would do well to remember the price we paid during the Korean War.

©2010 T.R. Fehrenbach (P)2010 Tantor

Critic reviews

"The awful beauty of this book [is that] it cuts straight to the heart of all the political and military errors, and reveals the brave souls who have to bleed and die for mistakes made. A timely reissue of a military classic." (General Colin L. Powell)

Excellent

An excellent narrative of the forgotten war. An intriguing listen that tells the story from every point of view from each party involved in the war bringing a unique experience to the book.

Best Analyst of the Korean War

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in military history. Great read, or listen.

Fabulous Brilliant Wise

My new favorite historian now I shall collect and read all of his books. I thank Mr. Fehrenbach.

Exactly...The *Classic* Korean War History

Without having studied “This Kind of War” by T.R. Fehrenbach or taken many notes, it seemed very similar to “In Mortal Combat” by John Toland. These books cover essentially the same time period and the same story, albeit with some difference in which battles they describe in detail (which by itself could make it worthwhile for one studying the military aspects of the Korean War to read both) and in their analysis of MacArthur and the Communist powers. Essentially, as I recall, Toland was harder on MacArthur and less concerned about the spread of worldwide Communism, while Fehrenbach saw the three Communist powers (China, Soviet Union, North Korea) as a politically unified block that was scheming as a team to dominate Europe and Asia. It is important to keep in mind that “This Kind of War” was first published in 1963, well before the collapse of the Soviet Union and (probably) during a period of high fears of worldwide Communism...which is not to its detriment. “In Mortal Combat” was first published in 1991 and therefore had the opportunity to benefit from hindsight of the Cold War, more research and probably more accurate data, enemy records, etc. But Fehrenbach presents what I call a streak of old-fashioned MURICA and does as good a job as anyone can of rationalizing why the Korean War was fought by both sides...it was a war of wills, and it “proved” that Communism would not have a free hand in all of east Asia. Fehrenbach also makes many healthy observations about the societies of different nations and their fighting men. In our day (2021), I think “This Kind of War” is the more important book, though I think “In Mortal Combat” is probably more accurate in the details.

The reading by Kevin Foley of "This Kind of War" was not as excellent as the reading by Grover Gardner of "In Mortal Combat". Mr. Foley's delivery of the gripping story is not distracting except at the few times he attempts foreign accents. Overall, one becomes used to his voice and I appreciate the work he put into reading "This Kind of War.

Help for the Korean Ignorant....

Any additional comments?

I was born in the 1960s....my Korean War knowledge = M*A*S*H. Book gives solid background and very intriguing first half. Second half, following Chosin Reservoir, bogs down much like the war did. The author does a good job moving the reader through the stalemated portions.

Choose this one

If you’re like I was, looking for a comprehensive account of this little spoken about conflict, look no further. It’s interesting that throughout my schooling almost zero was ever spoken about the war (I was schooled mostly in the 70’s where I think everyone wanted to forget our Asian military conflicts). As was typical of his generation my father never spoke of it either despite having served. Even when I pestered him later in life. This book is well worth the listen

excellent and thoughtful

great coverage of the war.I found it compelling and authoritative. I would definitely recommend it

Best Book Ever on the Korean War

I have read many books on the Korean War. This is the best book that I have ever read on the subject. It is well worth the time. The author’s point of view is almost unique. His method of covering the war is excellent. If you care anything about war in general and the Korean War in particular you must read this book.

Hap Arnold, LTC CA ANG USAF Retired
Phantom Pilot

Fascinating Narrative

Very well written, and spoken, about the state of the conflict and geopolitics of the mid 20th century. A must read for students of the post war 1950’s era.

This kind of excellence

Read the book years ago so the audio book was pure candy! Well produced & finely performed.