The author conveys how Japanese leaders hoped the resulting casualties would wear down U.S. troops and a war-weary American public, forcing the U.S. to negotiate rather than imposing unconditional surrender.

... a balanced and well-written account of not only the ground combat, but the offshore kamikaze campaign against the US Navy and the terrible toll on the island’s civilian population.

... a comprehensive overview of the Battle of Okinawa, released in time for its 75th anniversary.

The final campaign against Japan receives expert handling.

... an encyclopedic chronicle.