First published 1985
William L. Shirer's childhood in the American Midwest gives way to a life-changing journey across the Atlantic. He immerses himself in the vibrant cultures of 1920s Europe, witnessing the rise of fascism and the collapse of a continent on the brink of war. Shirer's intimate accounts capture the textures of a transformative era, from the ornate salons of Vienna to the frenetic streets of Berlin. As he navigates this volatile landscape, his quest for truth and understanding becomes a gripping personal odyssey.
Genres: biography, history, historical, 20th-century
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, personal-odyssey
Setting: United States
Period: 20th century
510 pages · Paperback · Bantam