This is London

This Is London compiles radio broadcasts and written dispatches from legendary CBS correspondent Edward R. Murrow during his coverage of World War II in Britain from 1939-1941. Murrow's reports capture both major events and everyday scenes from London during the Blitz and early years of the war. The book presents Murrow's observations of British resilience through air raids, blackouts, and wartime rationing. His chronicles include descriptions of bomb shelters, military preparations, and conversations with Londoners from all walks of life. The narrative structure moves chronologically through key moments in Britain's wartime experience, from the early "Phony War" through intense German bombing campaigns. Murrow's writing maintains focus on human experiences rather than military strategy or political analysis. These dispatches represent an intersection of journalism and historical documentation, revealing how civilians maintain daily life during war. The text explores themes of collective courage and the preservation of culture under extreme circumstances.

There are not enough internet reviews to create a summary of this book. Instead, here is a summary of reviews of Edward R. Murrow's overall work: Readers consistently highlight Murrow's direct, honest reporting style and his commitment to truth-telling during crucial moments in history. His World War II radio broadcasts from London receive particular attention in reviews, with readers noting how his vivid descriptions transported listeners to the scene. What readers liked: - Clear, straightforward delivery of news - Courage in challenging McCarthy during the Red Scare - Ability to humanize complex stories - Focus on social justice issues like migrant worker conditions What readers disliked: - Limited availability of original broadcast recordings - Some found his style too formal by modern standards Most books about Murrow, including "Edward R. Murrow and the Birth of Broadcast Journalism" by Bob Edwards, receive 4+ out of 5 stars on Amazon and Goodreads. One reader noted: "Murrow showed what journalism could be when practiced with integrity and purpose." Another commented: "His wartime broadcasts still give me chills - you feel like you're there in London during the Blitz."

Citizens of London by Lynne Olson The experience of American journalists and diplomats in London during WWII provides parallel perspectives to Murrow's wartime broadcasts.

Night Over London by John Julian A collection of wartime radio broadcasts and journalism from London reveals the city's transformation during the Blitz through reporters' firsthand accounts.

London at War by Philip Ziegler The social history of London from 1939-1945 captures the city's atmosphere and civilian experiences that Murrow documented in his broadcasts.

The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson Churchill's first year as Prime Minister unfolds through intimate details of London life during the German air campaign that Murrow witnessed.

Reporting World War II: Part One: American Journalism 1938-1944 by Library of America The collected works of war correspondents presents multiple perspectives of the same events and period Murrow covered in his London broadcasts.

📚 During the London Blitz, Murrow famously broadcast from rooftops while German bombs fell, beginning his reports with "This is London," which became his signature phrase and the book's title. 🎙️ The book compiles Murrow's wartime radio broadcasts from 1939-1941, giving Americans some of their first vivid accounts of World War II before the U.S. entered the conflict. ✍️ Murrow's wife Janet convinced him to publish his broadcasts as a book, recognizing their historical significance beyond their original radio format. 🌟 His dramatic descriptions of London under siege helped shape American public opinion and garnered support for British war efforts, with Winston Churchill later crediting Murrow's broadcasts as crucial to securing American aid. 🏆 The reporting style Murrow developed during this period - combining factual journalism with personal observation and emotion - revolutionized broadcast journalism and influenced generations of reporters.