A Novel of the War in the Pacific (World War II) - The Final Storm

I have completed both The Final Storm and Mr. Shaara's European theater trilogy, and can recommend each of the books enthusiastically. Mr.Shaara's literary style, fashioned after his father's before him, is captivating. His stories tell the basic history of important events, while including human perspective to tell that story. It is especially interesting and important to read the perspective of participants in these events who's view is not the same as that of the average American. Perhaps the most compelling feature of these stories is the graphic description of battles, including the wounds suffered by the participants. I have never personally read any accounts of battle which are more graphic, descriptive, and ultimately tragic. I complement Mr. Shaara on his work, and recommend it to all readers.

Great historical fiction by an expert writer that gives the reader an insight into emotional, physical, and gruesome challenges experienced by command and subordinate individuals involved in the Pacific Theatre of WWII.

Okinowa was the last really formidable confrontation of WW2. Jeff Shaara give a insightful look into the mindset of the Japanese military. The continual denial of reality by the imperial general staff caused the loss of countless lives. This book provides valid reasoning for the use of atomic weapons to end the war.

Depicts the horror of war in an unforgettable story. This is why they were called the greatest generation. You will be taken on a journey from the invasion of Okinawa to the dropping of the atomic bombs!

History is always alive with Shaara. The detail together with the accuracy make me a great fan of his. I've read every book of his and of his father. I expect I will continue to do so. I can't imagine him being any more accurate with history and still being a great story teller. I appreciate the mix he creates. Thanks to him and his publisher.

This book continued the excellence of the author's previouse books about WWII. I think it was much better than "With the Old Breed", which was basically the same story but by a participant. The book covers much more than the "Breed" in that it includes perspectives of several other participants in the campaign. The perspective of the Japanese side was extremely interesting and thought provoking. I couldn't put it down, as I wanted to read how things folded out for the characters even though I knew the outcome of the battle. The author does such a great job of developing his characters and what they go through. I highly recommend this excellent book as well as all his other books--make sure you read them in chronological order from before the Civil War to this one.

I enjoyed the book because it shows the sacrafice so many made for our freedom. The book shows both sides of the conflict with human touches intermixed. I felt the book was well written. The characters , at the end of the book, became real by telling what they did after the conflict. I would recommed this book.

Shaara adds his trademark touch that depicts the common folk characters as very real individuals that do what people do everyday, even though there is a terrible war going on around them. Some are good. Some are mean. Some are just scared out of their wits. But all them, even the big players, seem like people you probably know and bring the horrors of warfare closer to home. Final Storm is the best of the series.

This is a continuation of the World War II novels created by Jeff Shaara and is in the best traditions of the the first three. He not only spins a great fact driven yarn but draws an accurate picture of the real characters who participated in these events. His effort produced a unique picture of the last phases of the battle in the Pacific.

I only hope his next novel exploring the events and characters prominant in the Korean war is currently in work!!

Great book. Focus on the Pacific during WW2 (a book end to his three volumes about the war in Europe). Appreciated it he started with Iowo J and then went Okinawa. Was great in giving insight into what was on the minds of the Japanese and US solders.

I have enjoyed every book Shaara. has written. He always does an excellent job of blending his fictional characters with historical characters. His historical novels are an excellent blend of fiction and historical fact. It makes history enjoyable.

The multiple first person format combined with excellent historical research convolved to make a great story. A bit more on the spin up of the 509th and Tibbets would have added to the narrative, but altogether all was balanced well.

Very interesting, seen from the eyes of the Generals and the private. I like the view from both sides of the front. I learned a lot about the final days of the war in the Pacific and I have read a lot of World War 2 history.

Thoroughly enjoyed the story. Most of my readings have been about the European conflict (D-Day etc). Good to learn more about what our guys dealt with in the Pacific. Big Jeff Shaara fan.

Courage is being scared to death… and saddling up anyway.
-- John Wayne

Thoroughly enjoyed the story. Most of my readings have been about the European conflict (D-Day etc). Good to learn more about what our guys dealt with in the Pacific. Big Jeff Shaara fan.

Courage is being scared to death… and saddling up anyway.
-- John Wayne

Jeff Shaara is one of the most important writers of our generation. His exceptional writing style makes you feel as though you are an active part of the war effort. While reading the book you become friends with the characters he brings to life and follows throughout the Pacific Campaign. As a former history teacher I love the fact that all of his books are based on primary sources. I am also thankful that after reading his WWII novels I now have just a small understanding of the sacrifices and price that was paid by my own relatives as well as all veterans during WWII. If you want to gain a better understanding of what service means read this book. It is an honest look at the horrors of war as well as decision making by both military and political leaders.

Another great novel from Shaara. Although the book focuses almost exclusively on the battles on Owkinawa, the stories of incredible carnage, sacrifice and bravery are transferable to any of the battles in the Pacific, so although a full-blown trilogy on the Pacific would have been ideal, this book gives readers a small but satisfying taste of the greater story.