classicbhaer's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

This book covered one of the most iconic photos taken at then end of WWII. Not only did it tell the story of the “nurse” and sailor it also discussed various other theories as to the identities of these two individuals.

I really like how the book started with a wonderful narrative about the childhood and how both came to be in New York on that day. Then it changes gears and becomes almost like a court case. This did not put me off. The author discusses the other theories and claims made by others who claim to be the nurse and sailor. Going through photo evidence, expert opinions, and timelines. It was handled very well. It did not sky away from looking at all possibilities.

I enjoyed this book, it allowed this iconic picture become almost more personal. It gave identities and lives to the nurse and sailor, it added an emotional connection that was lacking for me. I ended up giving it a 4/5 stars. The reason it was not a 5 star book was due to the book was a little slow at some parts since about half or a little more talks about the evidence presented in this book. Currently on GoodReads it has a 3.38 out of 91 ratings.

I find that this book would be best for people who really enjoy history and analyzing of sources. Additionally, those who are really interested in the story behind this photograph.

kneessa's review against another edition

Go to review page

2.0

This book did what it offered, a presentation of facts about the iconic photo. I would have preferred a little more narrative to keep me interested though.

sharonfalduto's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

You know that picture of the sailor kissing a nurse on V-J day? Of course you do. One of the most iconic photos of all time. Well, turns out that picture is the cause of some controversy, because a lot of sailors and a few nurses are pretty damn sure it's them in that photo. The photographer, Eisenstadt, "father of photojournalism," didn't take notes; he just snapped the pic and move on.

This book uses CSI evidence, facial recognition software, and the stories of the people themselves, and deduces that the people in the photo are sailor George Mendonsa and dental assistant Greta Zimmer.

Fun little read, although it did repeat itself sometimes.

mara_jade510's review against another edition

Go to review page

2.0

So I wrote a long review and my computer decided to quit so I am not going to write another one....

Suffice it to say that though I love this photo and the detective story that lasted decades, this book was poorly written AND poorly edited. Oh my gosh. It.was.awful. Too much repetition, bad placement of chapters, etc. Seriously. I am a writer. And I have edited many college papers. The arrangement of this book was pathetic.

morockin_readin's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

I like historical research and this story was fascinating. The evidence is overwhelming for this pair George and Greta, out of the other contenders, to be the famous missing couple. Enjoyable "mystery." Will say they needed a better editor (commas misplaced like the following and, used instead of hyphens?) But remember I'm petty. :-)
More...