1 / 4We Have Ways of Making You Talk: New Histories of the Second World War
Histories: We Have Ways of Making You Talk is James Holland and Al Murray’s book drawing on their Second World War podcast and detailed show notes. Its chapters range across major battles, turning points and less familiar stories, with a focus on how the war was fought and understood.
At a glance
- Covers episodes and themes from El Alamein and Barbarossa to the war in China and Stalingrad.
- The book description says it draws on James Holland and Al Murray’s detailed podcast show notes and recent academic research.
- Gives attention to overlooked and rarely told details alongside major battles and turning points.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Its broad geographical and thematic range suits readers wanting more than a battle-by-battle overview.
- The podcast-derived chapters offer a clear starting point for readers already interested in James Holland and Al Murray’s approach to the war.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | Headline |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 27 Aug. 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 336 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1472296508 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1472296504 |
| Weight listed | 570 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 24.13 x 2.84 x 16.51 cm |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers seeking a wide-ranging account of the Second World War, including less familiar episodes and interpretations.
- Listeners to We Have Ways of Making You Talk who want related material in book form.
- Readers looking for an accessible entry point into debates about how the war unfolded.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
82% 82% - 4 stars
9% 9% - 3 stars
0% 0% - 2 stars
9% 9% - 1 star
0% 0%
The available aggregate ratings are mostly in the five-star category, but a smaller portion are two-star, so the overall picture is favourable without being unanimous. Ratings alone do not explain readers’ reasons or establish which topics or writing choices they valued. Consider whether the book’s broad, podcast-derived approach matches the depth and style you want.
Frequently asked questions
What does the book cover?
The description highlights major battles and turning points as well as less familiar episodes, including El Alamein, Barbarossa, the war in China, Stalingrad, Dunkirk and Arctic convoys.
Is this book connected to the podcast?
Yes. The listing presents it as the official book from We Have Ways of Making You Talk and says it is composed from James Holland and Al Murray’s detailed show notes.
How long is the book?
The listing gives a print length of 336 pages.
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