I am a ww2 history buff and this book mentioned some people I never knew before. I agree with the first five as well. Hitler should always be number 1 even if he was the most evil man to live on this planet. Where is Mengele? A few people that should have been higher, but overall a great book to own.

Almost 5 stars, but I disagree with too much of the list to hand over the 5th star. The author admits this book is subjective, but I believe he makes an honest attempt to be objective. Even though I cannot think of any additional Russians, I'm sure they are underrepresented. Only 7 Russian figures, the US has around 40. I was impressed that Andrew Higgins was included, but more private citizens dedicated to leading war material production belong on this list (whether they gained financially or not, they still dramatically influenced the war), such as Henry Kaiser, and maybe Henry Ford. The top 5 are indisputable, and I agree with the order each is ranked, after then, the debate begins. My biggest dispute is the lack of front line soldiers, too many generals and admirals. After finishing the book, the only front line soldiers which come to mind, which the author included are Jimmy Doolittle, Mordecai Anielwicz, Konstantin Rokossovsky and the Sullivan brothers. Where is Audie Murphy? Or any of the Iwo Jima flag holders? This debate can go on forever, but I can't resist posing these questions. How can Curtis LeMay (architect of air bombings over Japan), Chuichi Nagumo (executed Pearl Harbor attack, decided against 3rd wave), Claire Chennault (leader of Flying Tigers which encouraged America to enter the War) and Simon Buckner (highest ranking US military casualty of war) not make the list. Buckner and Nagumo didn't even make honorable mention!!. Those 4 were obviously overlooked. Overall the author has done a competent and courageous job. I hope this helps.

I am a "lay" reader, not a history student or even a history buff, and for me, this book was terrific. It made World War II come alive in short essays that were quick to read and fascinating.