57 pages • 1 hour read
A Bridge Too Far
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Book Brief
576
Book • Nonfiction
The Netherlands • 1940s
•
Teamwork•
Nation•
Military & War1974
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Bridge Too Far by Cornelius Ryan is a historical account of Operation Market Garden during World War II. The book chronicles the ambitious Allied plan to secure key bridges in the Netherlands, aiming to expedite the war's end. Through detailed research and personal stories, the text highlights the operation's challenges and the resilience of those involved.
Informative
Suspenseful
Challenging
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
A Bridge Too Far by Cornelius Ryan is praised for its detailed and gripping narrative of Operation Market Garden during World War II. Critics commend Ryan's thorough research and vivid character portrayals. However, some note the complexity of the military operation may overwhelm readers unfamiliar with the historical context. Overall, it's a compelling and informative read.
Who Should Read A Bridge Too Far?
Readers fascinated by WWII military history, strategy, and human valor will appreciate Cornelius Ryan’s A Bridge Too Far. Fans of Stephen E. Ambrose’s Band of Brothers or Antony Beevor’s Arnhem will find similar engaging, well-researched narratives here.
Major General Roy Urquhart
Major General Roy Urquhart
Commander of the British 1st Airborne Division during Operation Market-Garden, he faced significant challenges, including isolation and communication failures, soon after his troops landed near Arnhem.
General James Gavin
General James Gavin
As commander of the U.S. 82nd Airborne Division, Gavin was tasked with capturing key bridges around Nijmegen during Operation Market-Garden and was known for his active leadership style and presence on the front lines.
Lieutenant Colonel John Frost
Lieutenant Colonel John Frost
Commanded the 2nd Battalion of the British Parachute Regiment, tasked with seizing the northern end of the Arnhem bridge, and held the position for several days despite being outnumbered and isolated.
Field Marshal Walter Model
Field Marshal Walter Model
Commanded German Army Group B and was a key figure in the German defense during Operation Market-Garden, known for his rapid counteractions and defensive expertise.
General Wilhelm Bittrich
General Wilhelm Bittrich
Leader of the German II SS Panzer Corps, he played a crucial role in organizing the rapid German response to Operation Market-Garden, coordinating armored divisions to block Allied advances.
Major General Stanisław Sosabowski
Major General Stanisław Sosabowski
Commander of the Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade, he was renowned for his outspoken skepticism of Operation Market-Garden’s plans and faced delays and poor coordination.
Cora Baltussen
Cora Baltussen
A Dutch civilian from Driel, her brief appearance in the narrative highlights the impact of war on daily life and the civilian experience during the battle around Arnhem.
576
Book • Nonfiction
The Netherlands • 1940s
•
Teamwork•
Nation•
Military & War1974
Adult
18+ years
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