A Bridge Too Far

[bravotwozero]

Book: A Bridge Too Far
Author: Cornelius Ryan
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published: 1974
ISBN: 0-671-21792-5
Original Price: $13.95
Bought at: $20.00 at a gun show

This is a non-fiction book about Operation Market Garden. The airborne invasion planned by Field Marshal Montgomery.

I was in high school when I originally read this. It was presented as a two part series condensed book section of Reader's Digest. I just couldn't get enough of this. At the time, I was already familiar with Cornelius Ryan for his other work "The Longest Day", so when I saw his name as the author to this book, I just had to read it. I devoured every page of the Reader's Digest book section and ended up wanting more.

I went to college and found the full version in the library. I checked it out often and was reading it more than my homework (studies suffered unfortunately...I digress). I found Cornelius writing style enjoyable to read and I liked that he was able to interview participants from the battle itself, from all sides. Civilians, privates, officers, enlisted men, etc.

There was a movie that was released based on this book. But as the saying goes..."You Can't Judge A Book By Its Movie".

Nevertheless, I have to admit that this book started my obsession with the British Paratroopers. I finally found a paperback version of the book but I wanted a hardcopy one for my library. This was always among the books that I look for when I rummage throughsecond hand books and finally I found one! First Edition and in pretty good condition.

If you want an extensive book about Operation Market Garden, this is a must-have.

Did I mention that I got obsessed with British Airborne?

[medic]

Obsessed...seems a mild term, heh heh. But absolutely acceptable in these circles.

[vandal]

The first time I saw this in the movies I was on my prep school back in 77. After that I kept watching this over and over until this time. Never feel tired watching even for more than 3 hours. My 2 favorite war movies are the longest day and A bridge too far, Sands of Iwo Jima, Guadalcanal diary and some other movies. BTW nice book..