Tuchman is "a writer of wit and grace" according to the New York Times. "She has a sardonic sense of humor and an original mind." I found her book about how WWI evolved, both compelling and repulsive. I gulped it in, as though inhaling halting breaths, engrossed in the horrific sadness of it all, putting the book down with a heavy and ponderous sigh, then picking it up again, needing to learn more. Tuchman's writing flows gracefully and she knows just how much detail to bring into this sweeping tale of a "tragedy of errors". Newsweek said it best, I think: "Tuchman is able to evoke both the enormous pattern of the tragedy and the minutiae which make it human" in what must surely be one of history's saddest moments.

Barbara Tuchman takes us through a vivid exploration of the begining of the most important historical event of the century. Finally a master story teller presents the great debate of the start of the second world war with interesting detail and unbias historical accuracy. A definite must read for anyone who would even consider themselves a serious historian or just a passionate reader of history.

This is one of the best books I have ever read about anything and for anyone with a sense of history and even the remotest interest in the subject or period is a must read. It is riveting from the outset. If you are not enthralled by the first paragraph put it down and forget it. It may not be for you.

This is an entertaining book about the first month ofWWI. The scope is the assassination of the Archduke in Sarajevo to the eve of the Marne (including Tannenburg on the eastern front). Because most of the early action in WWI occurs in the western front, the book concentrates there. It develops the Schlieffen Plan and the French Plan 17 and explains how the high commands of both countries attempt to carry out these plans.

Tuchman gives all sides of a disagreement in policy or action. This even-handed account is most welcome. An example is her treatment of Lanrezac, commander of the French 5th army at the start of the war - she points out that he was essential in preventing the Germans from turning the French flank in the early battles, but then agrees with his dismissal at the eve of the Marne: "...not the man to lead the offensive." The only person she completely villifies is Sir John French of the BEF.

Most importantly, the book is very well-written, enjoyable and clear to read, and even witty. Unfortunately, there are some spots with vague allusions to historical events and people without explanantion. While a practising historian probably finds this humourous or helpful, it is murky for an amateur. This is a minor point; on the whole, this book is stellar.