This is a new publication from the German firm Navy . For several reasons the publication of this fine book had been delayed, eye surgery required by one of the authors (Axel Urbanke), workload, new material which surfaced( sorry) and lastly Covid19. This is a really well-made book the firm has excellent publishing standards and it has been well worth the wait, for me it seemed like "Christmas" had come. The text is detailed reads well, the diagrams/chart reproduction is excellent and can be very easily followed. The photographic coverage is comprehensive and very clearly reproduced - one of the major strengths of the book so much detail is presented giving a great insight into the conditions and day to day tasks that had to be completed. Each patrol is covered in detail making use of all available records and again the rich collection of film stills and photos shot by war correspondents, torpedo firing reports, and the career of the boat captains of whom Topp was the most well known. To be honest I do love this book and am delighted to recommend it. My interest in U -552 came from visiting a very neglected cemetery near Saint John's Point on Donegal Bay a young Canadian (Sub. Lt. Robbins) from SS Nerissa his body was cast ashore nearby and he was buried in this very small isolated cemetery. When I am done the way I " call-in" to cut the grass over his grave and to say "hello" as he is so very far from home, the scarf was placed around his headstone last year along with a fridge magnet, I believe by a visiting relative. (The survivors were landed in Londonderry.) This is not a cheap book but it is one of some quality - I was surprised to see Waler Freiherr von Freyberg-Eisenberg-Allmendingen was one of Topp's officers - his own command was sunk in October 1943 by Bert Russell from 423 RCAF flying from Castle Archdale, a place I know so very well. In short very well worth the cover price. Ps the system has shortened the link to the firm to "Navy". The note on the book packaging made by Benedicte ( Co-owner of the firm who does the hard work of keeping the behind the scenes work going), a note to Marie my partner.
