The Phoney Victory

The World War II Illusion

By: Peter Hitchens

Narrated by: Peter Hitchens

Was World War II really the 'Good War'? In the years since the declaration of peace in 1945, many myths have sprung up around the conflict in the victorious nations. In this audiobook, Peter Hitchens deconstructs the many fables which have become associated with the narrative of the 'Good War'.

Whilst not criticising or doubting the need for war against Nazi Germany at some stage, Hitchens does query whether September 1939 was the right moment or the independence of Poland the right issue. He points out that in the summer of 1939 Britain and France were wholly unprepared for a major European war and that this quickly became apparent in the conflict that ensued. He also rejects the retroactive claim that Britain went to war in 1939 to save the Jewish population of Europe. On the contrary, the beginning and intensification of war made it easier for Germany to begin the policy of mass murder in secret as well as closing most escape routes.

In a provocative but deeply researched book, Hitchens questions the most common assumptions surrounding World War II, turning on its head the myth of Britain's role in a 'Good War'.

©2018 Peter Hitchens (P)2019 Audible, Ltd

The sad tale of an old Myth

This is painful disillusioning of many of our childhood fantasies, told in a way that only Hitchens does, all the more so being read aloud by himself.

still timely

This book is important for anyone interested in modern western historical context and concerned about western nations' direction now. The author's personal engagement with evolving understanding is effective. Treatment of figures under great pressure in complex, dim circumstances is unflinching, honest and decent.

Interesting but depressing story

An controversial look at the Good War that we have romanticized for generations. It certainly has inspired me to do more research on the subject, but I feel that in his dissection of the events leading up to/during the war Hitchens largely ignores the story of King Edward VIII, only making brief mention of him as one of many stabs at the cultural image of Churchill in the West. I also cant recall any mention of Mosley, but his legacy is probably set in stone and not as important as some are lead to believe. My only complaint about the performance is that Hitchens (who reads the book himself) has a bad habit of occasionally loudly whistling through his teeth when saying words that start with “s.” This is jarring and annoying since his voice is appropriately low for most of the book and clashes with the mood. Still, a very good book in both content and performance, worth looking at if you are interested in a look at Britain’s actions by a cultured British author unsympathetic to preserving the myth of Churchill, but not approaching it from an almost strictly anti colonial perspective.

Incredible Detailed Book

Peter Hitchens is an excellent thinker and writer, but he is also his own best reader.

Tragic

This books tells a tragic tale well. It is hard to see comforting myths overturned, but it is necessary