Pearl Harbor

Japan's Greatest Disaster

By: Mark Stille

Narrated by: Christopher Ragland

Bloomsbury presents Pearl Harbor: Japan's Greatest Disaster by Mark E. Stille, read by Christopher Ragland.

A detailed re-examination of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the Day of Infamy that saw the USA enter World War II.

In this the first comprehensive treatment of Pearl Harbor since the early 1990s. respected Pacific War naval historian Mark E. Stille traces the road to war and the Japanese attack itself. He examines the role of the man behind the operation, Japanese Admiral Yamamoto, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the plan. The American preparations for an attack are also carefully reviewed. The heart of the book is a comprehensive narrative of Pearl Harbor along with an appreciation of its results placed in proper perspective.

In common with many of the major campaigns of the Pacific War, many myths surround the Battle of Pearl Harbor, and, amongst others, Mark explores and dismantle the myth of Yamamoto as a military genius, as well as the myth that the attack was brilliantly planned. Long regarded as brilliant strike, Mark argues in Pearl Harbor that the attack was instead a tactical disappointment, an operational failure and a strategic disaster.©2025 Mark Stille (P)2025 Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Excellent- but

I have been reading books that discuss Pearl Harbor for decades. This is probably the best.
However, in my opinion the author very frequently denigrates the Pearl Harbor attack and its impact on the American mind. With that caveat I highly recommend this book.

Expert Telling and Analysis

"I fear all we have done is awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve." These words, spoken by Japanese Admiral Yamamoto were more prophetic than he could imagine.

While Japan had high hopes for their raid on Pearl Harbor, it would not turn out as they wanted. On the surface, the Japanese were victorious at Pearl. The Americans were caught, almost unaware, and the loss of life and vessel were astounding. But what seemed to be a victory turned out to be the undoing of the Japanese, bringing several costly mistakes that would become evident as time marched forward.

This was one of the BEST books that I have read this year. Mark Stille does a great job of breaking down not only what led to the attack, but the ramifications that the Japanese were going to deal with due to it.
The tactical analysis is top notch, so if you enjoy a good detailed read, this is one of the best that you can pick up. I read this one twice before writing my review, and am currently on the third going through with notes.