A review by lpg
The Devil's Diary by David Kinney, Robert K Wittman

challenging dark informative slow-paced

4.75

For those now generations removed from the events preceeding and during WWII,  almost a must read.  It's a fascinating and informative study of one of the lesser mentioned, yet central,  characters behind the rise and rule of the Nazi Party in Germany.  Alfred Rosenberg was the leading theorist and ideoligist of the Nazi Party, and through his writings and speeches laid most of the foundation for the "Final Solution".  
The authors also provide a detailed examination of the life of Joseph Kemper, the German-born member of the American prosecution team.   His story is seldom shared, but, deserves the care and attention found in the book. 
At times, there is an over-abundance of personal details given, and the juxtaposition of the lives of Rosenberg and Kemper can be a bit confusing at times,  especially in the early part of the book.  Fortunately, the foundation laid there does pay big dividends for the rest of the book.  Patience and perseverance at the start is rewarded as the book progresses.  
Both individuals, along with any other figures mentioned in detail, are presented "warts and all".   I found the presentation of the pettiness and flaws, along with the strengths and gifts, of the individuals makes the events, and the era, even more horrific, and believable.    

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