Battle of France book

[Amrit1]

I've always followed the adage of "never judge a book by its cover" (or title!), and I, for one, have been waiting impatiently for this volume.

From the snippets that Peter has offered up in answering members questions I think it's contents will be a great addition to that period of the war.

[Franek Grabowski]

Ruy
I do not think that comments of Chris or me were unconstructive. Phoney War and French Campaign (or Battle of France) are two distinctive periods as was Polish Campaign or Battle of Denmark and Norway.
The same about the number of nations/countries involved.
I guess the bulk of the book will be filed by details of crashed aircraft, and such inaccuracies would be a fraction of the book, nonetheless I cannot consider them unsignificant. This is founded criticism, and frankly, I have no idea, why any such critical remarks cause such a furious reaction.
I must note here, that removing Czechoslovakia and Poland is fulfilling Hitler's dream of erasing those countries. No, I am not suggesting anything, but perhaps an ignorance that caused a certain British FO minister to claim the Russian border is on Vistula river.

[Andy Saunders]

In an attempt to lighten things a little, could I suggest that if it ever goes to reprint the title is changed to something a little more, well, snappy? How about:

"The War In The Air from some unspecified date in 1939 to some uncontrovesial date prior to the Battle of Britain; Several Nations locked in Air Combat and involving representatives of all Beligerent Nations"

That should about cover it.

[tagjagd]

Dear Franek,

Originally Posted by Franek Grabowski

I must note here, that removing Czechoslovakia and Poland is fulfilling Hitler's dream of erasing those countries.

I can't believe you're ignoring the brave contributions of the Luxembourgers, Andorrans, Rhodesians and Mauritanians!! Not to mention those magnificent South Moluccans. Hitler wasn't too fond of those countries either.

I find the title inaccurate, misleading and offensive ... I guess the bulk of the book will be filed by details of crashed aircraft, and such inaccuracies would be a fraction of the book

Your many grievances have been duly noted. Repeating them ad nauseam will NOT result in the book being boycotted. I would suggest that you express your outrage by not buying a copy, and then moving on. Please!

Frankly, I have no idea, why any such critical remarks cause such a furious reaction.

Here's a clue: It's not the message, it's the messenger. Get it?

[Franek Grabowski]

Andy
Sarcasm intended but missed the point. For example Western Front September 1939 - June 1940 T&N; Phoney War, Battle of Benelux and Battle of France.
This does not change the fact the title caused criticism before printing.

Anonymous
If Andorran AF took part in combats it should be mentioned. My aim is not to cause boycott of the book, but to let the people know about the problem, because as Hitler said, lie repeated long enough becomes the truth.

[CJE]

Peter,
No offense intended.
It's just because "Battle of France" makes little or no recognition to the Belgian and Dutch armies which fought gallantly despite the overwhelming superioty of the Germans, even though it only was for too short a time.
Be sure that I'll read with considerable interest your book.

Chris

[Peter Cornwell]

Chris,

No offence taken. I hope that you enjoy it.

[marsyao]

Originally Posted by CJE

Peter,
No offense intended.
It's just because "Battle of France" makes little or no recognition to the Belgian and Dutch armies which fought gallantly despite the overwhelming superioty of the Germans, even though it only was for too short a time.
Be sure that I'll read with considerable interest your book.

Chris

Hi, the title "Battle of France" was what traditionaly historians called the compaign fought during the German invasion of West in 1940, this "title" did not mention British either, you did not see them complain

[Smithy]

Storm in a teacup.

I for one am looking forward to receiving my copy which I have no doubt will be devoured with gusto.

Arguing the title seems a tad pedantic, it is fairly obvious as to what and when it refers to, and I can't believe there are those so sensitive as to honestly take offence with it. Still each to their own.

As I said I am thoroughly looking forward to it, no matter what the thing's got written on the cover.


All the best with sales Peter,

Tim

[marsyao]

Well say, Smithy, I am also looking forward to it, wish it would be available on amazon soon