( 5 reviews )
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Posted: Nov 3 2006
Mr. Callo is an excellent writer who analyzes Jones' carrer with many of the special insights of a naval officer. Dealing with his men, tactics in battle and the interface between the navy and the political bosses. Quite a contrast to Evan Thomas' portrayal of Jones attacks on England in a political context.
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Posted: Jun 26 2006
I enjoyed this book. Admiral Callo presented a balanced history that placed the strategic, operational and tactical achievements of John Paul Jones' career in perspective. Admiral Callo, for example, discusses both the strengths and weaknesses of Jones' naval leadership, the fortitious circumstances of the tactical victory over the HMS Serapis (i.e. the role of chance and friction in war), the effect of tactical wins against the British in the larger strategic context of the American Revolution, and the joint operations involving the Russian fleet actions at the Liman of the Dnieper. All said, Admiral Callo avoids the hero-worship of some writers, providing a solidly researched, well-written biography of John Paul Jones' life. I recommend this book for Soldiers, Sailors, Airman and Marines - all members of the Armed Forces should know something about the life of an important patriot who established many traditions for the sea service.
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( 1 of 1 found this review helpful ) Posted: May 15 2006
Callo's book, many of the other recent historical novels of the same period, helped me better understand the difficulties faced by our new nation and it's leaders. John Paul Jones, like his peers Franklin, Jefferson and Washington, was not a hero but rather became one because of the challenges he faced both on the sea and in the politics of the new nation. The values and traditions we still follow today are well described and as a retired Navy Officer I better understand the origins of our Navy and Jones' contributions. I strongly recommend this book.
