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

Why abridged?

I did not realize when I bought this book that it is the abridged version, very disappointed because it loses a lot of the story between each vignette. Audible please bring back the unabridged.

N.B. This is an Abridgement

When l bought this book, l read the summary but missed the part about its being an Abridgement. Buyer beware!

Yes, they were that great

Having been parented by two of the greatest generation, I enjoyed learning more about what they went through. All too often, they refuse to talk about what happened to them during their amazingly challenging lifetimes, WWI, the great depression, WW2. They have suppressed their experiences or allowed their reflections to fade from their memories. There is still much for us to learn from our parents. I thank Brokaw for helping to reveal some of their stories to us.

NOT THE FULL AUDIO BOOK! This version is abridged

This review is a 1 star because I felt that it was not communicated effectively to me as a purchaser that I was getting the abridged version. The stories are wonderful, however, I was disappointed to know the audiobook didn't have all the stories. There's no chapter titles read, the narration reads straight through without pauses or indicators that you are into a new chapter. I like to listen to audio books when I'm in the car, but prefer to read when I'm at home. I had a difficult time going back and forth between the book, because I didn't know this was and abridgment. Even if you knew you were purchasing the abridgment, It was also difficult to know when Tom Brokaw had moved onto a new character because there's no indication that he's moving on to another story. Story transitions would have been obvious if he had read the chapter titles. There's only 3 "chapters" in the audible file and they don't correspond with the book. Please bring the unabridged reading back!

Why we appreciate this generation

Finally we have a book that honors this generation who experienced the toughest trials of the 20th century. As a son of a family from this generation, I had long noticed there was always something special about them. This generation is very different from the generations that were born from around 1950 onward, and Tom helps us to understand why. The world events of the time shaped them into who they are. I also think Tom effectively captures the most admirable qualities of this generation in his words. For those of us who did not experience the events of the 1930s and 1940s, Tom's book will give you a new respect for those who did.

For those who are sensitive to foul language, realize that there are a few terms in the chapter related to Art Buchwald. It is not excessive, but you should realize it is there if you happen to have some children who may listen with you. It's the reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5.

I'm sure everyone has heard Tom's voice from news broadcasts, so you will know he speaks clearly and with conviction. It's a big plus that Tom did his own narration for his work.

I recommend this book for everyone born after 1950. You will gain an appreciation for this generation who lived through the early-to-mid 20th century events you read in your history book, and you will hope that your generation will also follow their example.

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.

Missing Chapters

He didn't read all the chapters. He skipped over them and went to a different chapter.

It skips way too much

This abridged version is not good. It skips way too much and it was very hard to follow.

great book.

sometimes the audio jumped right to the next story with no pause. made it difficult to tell sometimes if you missed something. for the amount you pay for these books this shouldn't be an issue.

Worthwhile Read

I was recommended nthis book from my aunt and I was pleasently surprised. My grandfather was in the war and I knew him well enough to know he was special.

I am grateful that Tom put the time aside to share his thoughts on some of the legends that came out of this period.

being 30 myself I feel my generation either glorifies this generation or completely forgets them. It's tough to put yourself in someone else's shoes when the times were so different but hey! here is to trying and hopefully I can at least take hold a candle to the flame.

Brave men and women ... we can learn from them.

Let's non fool ourselves men and women. We live in a world of selfishness, laziness, self gratification.
The virtues shared through the powerful personal stories of all the HEROES told in the book are not known in the society today.
If any single one of takes only one lesson from this book and apply it in out lives, I bet that our lives will become richer.
Great book full of wisdom! I will recommend it to anyone.