WWII Book Club - Against all Odds by Alex Kershaw

Join us for an engaging bi-monthly book club exploring World War II through diverse lenses! We'll meet every other month (bi-monthly) to discuss four thought-provoking books, each offering a unique perspective on the war. From the devastating effects of the atomic bomb to the bravery of allied spies, the role of filmmakers in documenting history, and the raw experiences of GIs on the battlefield, this series will deepen your understanding of this pivotal era. No prior knowledge required, just bring your curiosity and an open mind! Each meeting will include guided discussions and historical context.     

Against All Odds: A True Story of Ultimate Courage and Survival in World War II is a nonfiction historical book by Alex Kershaw (a New York Times bestselling author of WWII histories like The First Wave and The Liberator).Published in 2022 (with paperback in 2023), it's an gripping account of four extraordinary American soldiers from the U.S. Army's 3rd Infantry Division—all recipients of the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military honor—who fought through some of the most brutal campaigns of the European theater.The book follows:

• Maurice "Footsie" Britt (a former football star turned officer),
• Michael Daly (a young lieutenant known for fearless leadership),
• Keith Ware (an artillery officer who rose through the ranks),
• Audie Murphy (the most decorated U.S. soldier of WWII, famous for his heroism and later Hollywood career portraying himself in films).

Their stories span over 600 days of relentless combat, starting from the 1942 Allied invasion of North Africa (Operation Torch, landing on the beaches of French Morocco), through intense battles in Sicily, Italy, southern France, and into the heart of Nazi Germany—including the final assault on Hitler's mountaintop fortress at Berchtesgaden.