Al Murray's new book proves, if anyone still feels the need to question it, that he is a major historian in his own right. Command is everything popular history should be: authoritative, full of deep wisdom and knowledge, genuinely fresh and original in approach and content, and both compelling and entertainingly written. Skilfully blending the famous names with those lesser known, he examines each in a completely fresh light, focussing on differing aspects that collectively offer a satisfyingly comprehensive whole that takes the reader on a journey across a wide range of landscapes, theatres and battles. It is an utter joy to read from start to finish. * James Holland * With his trademark combination of humour and deep-thinking - an iron fist in a velvet glove - Al Murray's brilliantly incisive debut history forces us to think again about the nature of Command and how the Allies were able to turn disaster into triumph in World War II. Quirky, original and hard-hitting, it is as enjoyable to read as it is instructive. -- Saul David Command is a stunning achievement. This is a book that sucks you in from the first page. Deeply incisive, each paragraph brings a new revelation. Al Murray's writing is as original and his conclusions as controversial as the generals he depicts. At the end of each chapter, you are left exhaling with a sense of "I didn't expect that." -- Peter Caddick-Adams With his trademark combination of humour and deep-thinking - an iron fist in a velvet glove - Al Murray's brilliantly incisive debut history forces us to think again about the nature of Command and how the Allies were able to turn disaster into triumph in World War II. Quirky, original and hard-hitting, it is as enjoyable to read as it is instructive. -- Saul David
