Bestselling author Len Deighton probes behind the scenes of World War II, revealing shocking truths about the poor planning, machinery, and performances of both sides--and how this affected the war. "A comprehsnvie and absorbing look at this century's major conflict".--Booklist.

Despite the volumes written about World War II, many questions remain un-answered. In this balanced and thoughtful chronicle, historian and World War II expert Len Deighton dares to explore intriguing questions, including why the British weren't more prepared for the Blitz and why Hitler failed to thoroughly support his U-boat program. He also warns that we haven't yet learned the lessons of World War II, as ethnic cleansing, Middle East violence, and the widening gap between rich and poor still plague the world.