Of all the memoirs I have read of soldiers on the Eastern front, both German and Russian (and there are more than a few), this is far and away the one that best gets into the soldier's head and relates what he thinks and feels at any given time. What makes it more powerful is that he is very explicit about his own feelings of fear, inadequacy, and even self-perceived cowardice. Nothing is spared; the true horror of war in all its ramifications and consequences is depicted in detail. It is a MUST read for anyone interested in the subject of war. Although I in no way sympathize with what the German army did, my heart bleeds for all the young men who were themselves victims of deception and betrayal. Definitely one of the most memorable books I have ever read.

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