GUDERIAN 1941: THE BARBAROSSA CAMPAIGN

David R Higgins

Publisher: Pen & Sword Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk ISBN: 978-1-52676-212-2 RRP: £25.00

In this worthy addition to the history of the Eastern Front, military historian David R Higgins sets out what is, in effect, a history of the Wehrmacht’s Second Panzer Group from the launch of Barbarossa in 1941 through to its stalling at Tula before reaching the gates of Moscow. Throughout this period, Heinz Guderian led the enormous success of his group before it was forced to a halt by winter, extended supply lines, and a multitude of other factors.

At this point, Guderian was relieved of his command.

Apart from studying the leadership of Guderian, the book takes the reader on what is a vivid narrative of the advance and with its account covering each stage of the conflict in almost unprecedented detail. Part of this detail looks at what the opposing commanders knew of each other’s plans and intentions, revealing

(in particular) the gradually worsening logistical situation for the advancing German army.

In putting this wellresearched book together, David R Higgins has drawn upon primary source material – both German and Russian – to bring us what is an exceptionally detailed history of the German advance under Guderian’s command. And it is in that, as a history of the initial part of Barbarossa, that this book really excels. In that respect, it is important to note that it is indeed more a history of Barbarossa, and all that went wrong, than it is a biography of Guderian as the title of the book might otherwise suggest.

As what is a forensic analysis of all that caused Barbarossa to fail, this book is secondto-none and contains an insightful presentation of the whole story from a largely German perspective.

With a section of photographs which illustrate the main subject headings to good advantage, these are also accompanied by several maps. These are reproduced in monochrome and in the opinion of the reviewer these could be clearer, and the book could benefit from a better and far wider selection. However, this does not detract from what is, overall, a useful addition to Barbarossa history. Reviewed by Frederick K Palmer jr.

Illustrations: ✔ References/notes: ✔ Appendices: ✔ Index: ✔