Chrissie's Reviews > A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918

I highly recommend A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918 by G.J. Meyer. It is comprehensive and concise at the very same time. Every aspect of the war is covered. No part of it feels long, drawn out or unnecessary. Every bit of information is presented in a clear, concise and interesting manner.

The telling proceeds in chronological order with chapters of background information inserted in-between. The strategical battle information is in this way paced so you do not get tired or bored. I usually dislike reading about battle maneuvers. Here, all is so clearly explained, I never lost interest.

The author presents the information in a balanced manner. He is not out to criticize one country or person over another. He points out weaknesses and strengths every step of the way. Background information adds a personal connection to the telling--biographical, military, political, sociological and cultural elements are interwoven. Always in just the right amount.

Robin Sachs narrates the audiobook. The narration fits the book perfectly. He speaks clearly. His pronunciation of French and German words is good. He speaks calmly, which is important in a book devoted to such a grim topic. Had he overdramatized, I would not have been able to listen to this book. The audio does not have a PDF file with accompanying maps. I did not find this to be a problem—adequate maps are easily accessible on the web.

No other book I have read has given me such a comprehensive view of the war and kept my interest from start to finish. It’s when you don’t understand that a person loses interest. I envy this author who has all this information neatly stored in his head. Those who really understand a subject are the best teachers; they have the ability to express themselves simply. G.J. Meyer does that here.

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*A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918 by G.J. Meyer 5 stars
*All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque 5 stars
*The Backwash of War: The Human Wreckage of the Battlefield as Witnessed by an American Hospital Nurse by Ellen N. La Motte 5 stars
*Wilson by A. Scott Berg 5 stars
*Nicholas and Alexandra by Robert K. Massie 5 stars
*A Soldier's Diary by Ralph Scott 4 stars
*George, Nicholas and Wilhelm: Three Royal Cousins and the Road to World War I by Miranda Carter 4 stars
*Testament of Youth by Vera Brittain 4 stars
*The Guns of August by Barbara W. Tuchman 4 stars

For more books, look through my WW1 shelf here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...