Rick Atkinson’s An Army at Dawn is lauded for its meticulous research and engaging narrative, bringing to life the U.S. Army’s efforts in North Africa during WWII. Critics praise Atkinson’s ability to blend strategic insights with human stories, though some note that the extensive detail may overwhelm casual readers. Overall, it’s a compelling read for history enthusiasts.

Fans of WWII history with a focus on the North African campaign will relish An Army at Dawn by Rick Atkinson. Comparable to Stephen E. Ambrose's Band of Brothers and Antony Beevor's D-Day, this meticulously researched work appeals to readers who appreciate detailed military narratives and strategic insights.

An Army at Dawn by Rick Atkinson is a nonfiction military history book chronicling the successful Allied invasion of North Africa during World War II, covering key operations including Operation TORCH and the climactic Battle of Kasserine Pass from 1942 to 1943, highlighting the strategic and tactical evolution of the Allied forces.

Informative / Suspenseful / Gritty / Challenging / Adventurous

- An Army at Dawn by Rick Atkinson won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 2003, showcasing its critical acclaim and significant contribution to the field.
- The book is the first volume in Rick Atkinson's Liberation Trilogy, which explores the U.S. Army's journey through the North African and European theaters during World War II.
- Rick Atkinson extensively used unpublished memoirs and diaries in An Army at Dawn, providing a deeply personal and detailed account of the events.

**Dwight D. Eisenhower**  
Eisenhower was the Supreme Allied Commander in the North African theater, responsible for overseeing the campaign despite having no prior combat experience. He later commanded the invasions of Sicily, France, and Germany.

**George S. Patton**  
Patton led the Western Task Force's invasion of Casablanca and took over command of the American II Corps from General Fredendall. Noted for his strong oratory and leadership, Patton's reputation is complex, marked by both strategic strengths and personal controversies.

**Franklin Delano Roosevelt**  
Roosevelt was the President of the United States during the North African campaign, making significant strategic decisions such as prioritizing the invasion of North Africa and insisting on unconditional Axis surrender.

**Erwin Rommel**  
Rommel, known as the Desert Fox, was the top German military commander in North Africa. He gained a formidable reputation through his tactical prowess and was pivotal in several victories against the Allies.

**Adolf Hitler**  
Hitler was the Führer of Nazi Germany, whose decisions, such as declaring war on the United States, had profound impacts on the course of World War II. He influenced the Axis strategy in North Africa under his leadership.

**Bernard Montgomery**  
Montgomery commanded the British Eighth Army and achieved victory at the Battle of El Alamein, following Rommel across North Africa. His leadership style was characterized by cautious engagement and effective battlefield improvisation.

**Omar Bradley**  
Bradley was Patton's deputy, taking command of II Corps after Patton to lead a successful campaign in Tunisia. He demonstrated tactical skill and decisiveness, which contributed to the Allied advancement.

**Lloyd Fredendall**  
Fredendall commanded the Central Task Force's landing in Oran and led the II Corps until his removal after the Kasserine Pass. His leadership was marred by tactical and logistical errors.

**Kenneth Anderson**  
Anderson commanded the British First Army during the North African campaign. His leadership faced challenges due to logistical issues and tactical missteps but also involved efforts to consolidate scattered forces.

Rick Atkinson

Adult

Book

World War II Liberation Trilogy

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore An Army at Dawn and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

An Army at Dawn

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read An Army at Dawn?

Reading Age

Book Details