Bicara Buku

  Title: At the Heart of the Reich Author: Major Gerhard Engel Translated from the German by Geoffrey Brooks Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing, New York Year published: 2016 208 pages This memoir offers a rare and insightful account of Adolf Hitler’s inner circle from the perspective of someone who was both close to the Führer and yet remained personally detached from Nazi ideology.  Engel served as Hitler’s army adjutant from 1941 to 1943, and his writings document the day-to-day life, behaviors, and mindset of Hitler and those around him during the critical years of the Second World War. The book is based on Engel’s diaries and personal notes, providing first-hand observations of Hitler's leadership style, moods, private conversations, and strategic thinking.  Engel portrays Hitler as a complex figure—charismatic and domineering, yet increasingly isolated and erratic as the war turned against Germany.  The memoir also highlights the internal dynamics and tensions with...

Title: Bombs Away: The Story of a Bomber Team Author: John Steinbeck Publisher: E-book Year Published:  Started reading: 23 May 2024 About the book: First published in 1942, it offers an insightful and patriotic account of the training and experiences of a World War II bomber crew.  Commissioned by the U.S. Army Air Forces, Steinbeck’s narrative is both informative and inspiring, capturing the camaraderie, dedication, and courage of the young men preparing for aerial combat.  Through his vivid descriptions and keen observations, Steinbeck highlights the rigorous training, technical skills, and psychological resilience required of bomber crews.  While the book serves as wartime propaganda, its compelling storytelling and empathetic portrayal of the airmen make it a valuable historical document and a tribute to the bravery of those who served.