Air Raid

This gripping account of the impact of the Blitz upon an Upminster couple was recently unearthed by the diarist's son. The harrowing events described so poignantly had an immediate effect on the author, who set out to compile this tribute both to his family and the countless people who have experienced or died from air raids. The Blitz diary began less than a year after Mary Hoodless had married, just three days before the Declaration of War in 1939. Such a personal record running through the Blitz period is unique. The entries throw light on the minutiae of trying to continue everyday life with a sense of normality against the backdrop of fear and uncertainty. As well as the diary itself, the place of the Blitz in the wider war is contemplated. Life was hard for most before the war; it became much worse for six years and it then became possible for the survivors to rebuild in a time of relative prosperity. All three phases are described in the family story. The moving narrative of the diary together with the explanation of the bigger picture demonstrate the courage, humour and great determination of ordinary Essex people in the face of war.

Just in time for 75th anniversary commemorations of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, this latest addition offers a complete visual history of the attack, its aftermath, and the salvage efforts that followed. Over 300 photos, with detailed captions—complete with information such as aircraft serial numbers—document aircraft, ships, submarines, and key locations. Text sidebars highlight President Roosevelt’s famous speech, the little known failed Japanese attack that followed in March 1942, and more.

Originally published in 1938, this fascinating book was 'intended for the ordinary citizen, the sort of man or woman who is going to be killed if Britain is raided again from the air'. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. Hesperides Press are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork. Contents Include : The Technique of Mass Murder The History of Air Bombing Keeping Bombers Away The Government's Precautionary Measures Further Government Schemes Protection Against High Explosive Bombs Evacuation An A.R.P. Scheme Giving Complete Protection The Political Aspect of A.R.P Summary Appendices Poisonous Gases and Smokes Gas Masks and Gas Proof Bags For Babies Calculations Regarding Leakage Into and Out of Rooms Gas Proof Boxes Bibliography Recent Developments