The Greatest Generation

By Tom Brokaw

The Greatest Generation - Tom Brokaw
  • Release Date: 1998-11-30
  • Genre: History
Score: 4
4
From 171 Ratings

Description

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 fifty 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

Reviews

  • Very Informative

    5
    By ncmcgovern
    Very interesting to learn how the experiences in the war shaped the lives of these men and women forever. For famous and not so famous people it was interesting to read how bravery in the war was the basis for success and bravery in politics, law and business.
  • Must read

    4
    By DaddyMags
    Very moving stories about many well-known and not so well-known men and women of that great generation.
  • Exceptional Book

    5
    By Emmet Aloysius
    Brokaw does an excellent job of relating the incredible contributions of our parent's generation through vignettes and stories of everyday people who made a difference in our country prior to the Baby Boom generation. We owe them big-time for all that we have! Good read for all true blooded Americans...EAF
  • Tradition

    5
    By WV Jack
    As a Vietnam combat vet whose hero's were the returning WW2 vets in my small Polish NJ town, I could relate to all the stories in the book. Thanks Tom! Further, I am proud to say that I observed the same traits in vets of my war and in those now serving. I am so happy to see our current vets being supported by our populace unlike what I experienced upon returning from VN. Thanks Again Tom
  • The Greatest Generation

    5
    By rawgear
    Excellent! Historical, personal and easy to read. First non- science book I have read in years. Recommend to all high school students in American History &/or Literature; every American who didn't live through WW II.
  • Great book

    5
    By 12345migs
    Great book