With the Fifth Army Air Force Book

‘The Women Who Wrote The War’ is an amazing book. Ms Sorel has carried out some incredibly detailed research to bring us the stories of the women correspondents who reported the Second World War from the front line. These were pioneering women who were willing to risk everything to work in what was, essentially, a man’s world. The book shows their strengths and vulnerabilities, their compassion and sensitivity, their search for the truth. It was not easy for a woman to report during the war, often finding adversaries in the world of the press and the hierarchy of the armed forces as well as at the front line. These women worked hard to bring the news home to America, and often made personal sacrifices to do so. They were a breed apart and deserving of recognition.

Ms. Sorel has met with many of these reporters, read their books, their reports and their journals, and so has been able to provide a unique insight into the lives of this small band of women. Her writing is clear and concise, cleverly weaving her words with the reporters own. The book reads somewhat between a history book, a biography and an adventure story, making it truly gripping.

This is one of the best books I have read in a long time, and I heartily recommend it.