Twenty One: Coming of Age in the Second World War

by James Holland

Incorporating 21 personal accounts of World War II veterans, this book looks back to a time when turning 21 not only symbolised becoming a man, it also meant being prepared to die like one. Each story emphasises the individuality of the story-teller, the tragedy of war and the preciousness of youth.

Genres: World War II

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name

James Holland was born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, and studied history at Durham University. He has worked for several London publishing houses and has also written for a number of national newspapers and magazines. Married with a son, he lives near Salisbury.

One of WWII’s finest historians, James Holland is the author of The Savage Storm, Brothers in Arms, Sicily ’43, Normandy ’44, Big Week, The Rise of Germany and The Allies Strike Back in the War in the West trilogy, and Dam Busters. He has written and presented the BAFTA-shortlisted documentaries Battle of Britain and Dam Busters for the BBC, and his WWII podcast, We Have Ways of Making You Talk, now has millions of listeners.

Reviews

[JD · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have wanted to read this book for a long time and finally got the book and it did not dissappoint!! The stories are of the ordinary people who fought in World War 2 and doing extraordinary things and covers many of the War's theatres. This is another great book by James Holland and I highly recommend this to any WW2 enthusiast.

[Judith Nicholls · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such an interesting and heartbreaking read.
My only wish is that there had been more women included - maybe a sequel is called for?