This particular book is the result of 40 years of research into one of Germany's more famous POW camps, Colditz Castle. It was here that the more troublesome or politically sensitive prisoners were sent. Security was higher here than at other places and such luminaries as Douglas Bader, Lorne Welch and Jack Best were held here.

However, escape attempts were still the norm, even in the highest security prisons, though few were successful.

Over the years, the author has amassed a considerable collection of artifacts and writings relating to Colditz and has, for the first time, placed all of his material into one book. Not a diary of Colditz by any means, the author has told the story of the men and events via the photos, letters, and relics in his collection.

The result is a fascinating look at not only the general history of Colditz, but also of the men who were incarcerated and those who were tasked with keeping them there. There are, of course, the escape attempts and those are fully covered, including the building of a glider in the loft of the castle, something that was never discovered and only revealed as the war ended before it was able to be put into use.

An outstanding book and collection shown in 200 black and white and color photos; both period images and those of the men and locale today. It is a fascinating read and honors the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Colditz by the 69th Infantry. I'm sure you will find it just an enthralling a read as did I.

January 2008

Review book courtesy of  Casemate Publishing, where you can order your copy of this and many other superb books and DVDs.

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