'S. S. General' by Sven Hassel delves into the depths of the German army during World War II, showcasing the brutality and madness of the war. Through a compelling narrative, the author reveals the futility of war, the waste of resources due to ideology, and the harsh realities faced by soldiers on the frontlines. Hassel's writing style is engaging, easy to read, and provides a snapshot of the terrible times of World War II, offering insights into the brutality of war and the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime.

Characters:

The characters are shown as complex individuals facing the brutal realities of war, often displaying human empathy despite their circumstances.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is accessible and engaging, avoiding melodrama while effectively conveying the intensity of wartime experiences.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot explores the authentic struggles and experiences of German soldiers in WWII, shedding light on their human stories amidst the harsh realities of war.

Setting:

The setting vividly depicts the harsh landscapes of Stalingrad and the Russian front, illustrating the grim realities of WWII.

Pacing:

The pacing is moderate and episodic, effectively balancing action with necessary moments of character introspection.

Notes:

Sven Hassel's books are popular in Europe but not well-known in the USA.

His novels provide insight into the life of ordinary German soldiers during WWII.

Many German soldiers enlisted for food, housing, and clothing during the economic crisis of the 1930s.

The German secret police created a climate of fear, preventing many from opposing Hitler.

SS General is praised for its engaging storytelling and character development.

Hassel's writing style is easy to read and engaging.

The book offers a glimpse into the horrors of Stalingrad, albeit through fictionalized accounts.

Hassel's earlier work was more exaggerated, while SS General is more balanced and consistent.

He reflects on the brutality of war and the impact of Nazi ideology.

The target audience for Hassel's books is often young men aged 16 to 22.

Hassel wrote over a dozen books based on his experiences in a German penal battalion during the war.

The narrative includes elements of human empathy, even for Russian adversaries.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for S. S. General would be medium due to graphic depictions of violence and war-related trauma.

From The Publisher:

SS GENERAL is the definitive Stalingrad novel, a gripping portrait of war's brutal realities.

It was said that Stalingrad had been burning since August, ever since the first German bombs were dropped...

Sven Hassel and his comrades are plunged into the maelstrom of Stalingrad.

Radio Moscow reports that one German soldier dies every minute.

Trapped by the Russian counter-attack, starving soldiers must resort to cannibalism to survive. But 'Tiny', Porta, the Legionnaire and Sven attempt to break out, to fight their way across the frozen steppe.

Their leader: an SS general who takes no prisoners...

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S. S. General

Sven Hassel

Book 8 in the series:Legion of the Damned