A review by alundeberg
Citizens of London: The Americans who Stood with Britain in its Darkest, Finest Hour by Lynne Olson

5.0

Lynne Olson's eye-opening book examines the efforts of Americans stationed in London, primarily Gil Winant, Ed Murrow and Averell Harriman, to bridge the gap between the British and Americans during the war. However, I found it to be more of a study of London and its tenacious, dedicated, and proud population. This is a sweeping and expertly written history that shines light on how difficult it was to build strong Anglo-American relationships on all levels. I appreciated Olson's theme of how in order to build any relationship there needs to be an understanding of the other party as shown by Winant and Murrow in their efforts to educate each population about the other. Both men realized that building bonds was more strategic than building egos.

If you are looking for a book that clearly shows the complexities of this relationship and the strengths and weaknesses of both countries, this is a book for you. If you are looking for a book about how great America was during the war, look elsewhere.