The book at war: libraries and readers in an age of conflict.

"The Book at War: Libraries and Readers in an Age of Conflict" by Andrew Pettegree explores the role of books in times of war. Pettegree examines various types of books, including pamphlets, maps, leaflets, newspapers, and magazines, as well as the infrastructure surrounding books such as libraries and changes in the publishing industry. The book also delves into how literacy, attitudes towards popular literature, and publishing decisions shaped which books were accessible during wartime. Pettegree also discusses the influence of books on military training programs and the dissemination of propaganda and information through printed materials. While the book primarily focuses on the First and Second World Wars, it also touches on other conflicts. Although Pettegree's analysis tends to be nuanced, the book provides valuable insights into the power of books and the impact of printed information on society during times of war. [Extracted from the article]