books
human smoke the beginnings of world war ii the end of civilization
bestselling author nicholson baker recognized as one of the most dexterous and talented writers in america today has created a compelling work of nonfiction bound to provoke discussion and controversy a wide ranging astonishingly fresh perspective on the political and social landscape that gave rise to world war ii . br human smoke delivers a closely textured deeply moving indictment of the treasured myths that have romanticized much of the 1930s and 40s . incorporating meticulous research and well documented sources including newspaper and magazine articles radio speeches memoirs and diaries the book juxtaposes hundreds of interrelated moments of decision brutality suffering and mercy . vivid glimpses of political leaders and their dissenters illuminate and examine the gradual horrifying advance toward overt global war and holocaust . br praised by critics and readers alike for his exquisitely observant eye and deft inimitable prose baker has assembled a narrative within human smoke that unfolds gracefully tragically and persuasively . this is an unforgettable book that makes a profound impact on our perceptions of historical events and mourns the unthinkable loss humanity has borne at its own hand .
paperback simon & schuster 2009 isbn13 9781416572466 isbn10 1416572465
abridged n isbn 13 9781416572466 number in series 1 number of pages 566 publisher simon & schuster release date 62135769600000