Berlin Embassy Book

William Russell does an excellent job of setting the stage for Nazi oppression with his inside account of his days in the US embassy at the outbreak of the war. The first few pages draw the reader in with his discussion of the immigration desk and the sheer volume that were trying to escape the oppressive regime. The account that Russell provides of the regime trend from the absurd to the truly shocking and give a perspective that is hard to find. He provides an account that is a truly invaluable primary resource for historians. For those who want to learn a little about the chaotic nature of diplomacy and the life of diplomats it is a great portrait. This book does an excellent job of portraying life in Germany in 1939 and 1940. It is scattered around and the organization at times may not make sense but its value as a primary account overrides those flaws. The insight that Russell provides on the German people and the way that Americans and others saw them in the world is fantastic. The view of Hitler and the SS/propaganda machine shows just what the state looked like. While people like William Shrier were trying to tell a journalistic story (which is also a wonderful source and should not be discounted) this book gives great insight into the times. Very easy to read and a wonderful contribution to our literature.