The Korean War

By Max Hastings,

Book cover of The Korean War

Book description

The Korean War is journalist and military historian Sir Max Hastings' compelling account of the forgotten war.

'The best narrative history of the Korean conflict' - Guardian

On 25 June 1950 the invasion of South Korea by the Communist North launched one of the bloodiest conflicts of the last century.…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep the lights on. Or join the rebellion as a member.

Why read it?

2 authors picked The Korean War as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Max Hasting’s book described the early days of the war, for example the actions of Task Force Smith. He provides a valuable perspective on the Korean War that includes an interesting balanced account of a war that is still considered by many to be controversial. Hastings considers the perspectives of all sides of the Korean conflict and examines the various motivations of their respective actions, such as the U.S. decision to send troops to Korea in September 1945, and to send them back in June 1950, to the Chinese decision to send their own troops into Korea in the fall…

Comfortably the best narrative-driven account of the war by a master of the genre. Hastings gives us superb first-hand accounts of those who fought on both sides, combining them with his characteristically incisive assessments of the motives and deeds of the leading military and political figures.

From Roger's list on understanding the Korean War.

Want books like The Korean War?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like The Korean War.

Browse books like The Korean War

Book cover of The Hunters
Book cover of I was a captive in Korea
Book cover of In Enemy Hands

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,098

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in the Korean War, the Cold War, and Korea?

The Korean War 55 books
The Cold War 263 books
Korea 43 books