Zeppelins of World War I: The Dramatic Story of Germany's Lethal Airships

by Wilbur Cross

Examines how the Germans converted airships from transport vehicles to fearful weapons during World War I, describing bombing raids on England and methods the British used to fight back and end the use of zeppelins as weapons

Genres: Aviation, Nonfiction, World War I

220 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[Tbfrank · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written account of the first air war over Britain from 1915 to 1918, the narrative combines the human side with technical details in an engaging manner. The author drew heavily on information from former Zeppelin Captain Hans von Schiller and includes an excellent bibliography of referenced and recommended works for those interested in the subject. Cross treats Peter Strasser, the man who led the Naval Airship corp and chiefly responsible for prosecuting the air war and pressing for technical improvements, in a more sympathetic manner than as other authors.

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent narrative on the politics behind the building and use of the Zeppelins. This book wasn't one I would have though about reading but, recommended by my husband, it was very informative and kept my attention.

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy-to-read overview of the strategic bombing campaign conducted by Zeppelins in WWI. Not as detailed or dry as other texts on this subject, this book is a good introduction. Recommended mainly to someone unfamiliar with the story who doesn't want too much analysis or a reader familiar with this history looking for a fun to read review. Those wanting to flesh out the subject will probably want to look elsewhere.