Book Review: ‘When the Sea Came Alive’ Expands Understanding of the D-Day Invasion

Writing about the Allied invasion of NormandyGarrett M. Graff is stepping into family history with his latest book.

From books by historian Stephen Ambrose to films like “Saving Private Ryan”, by Steven Spielberg, there are many works chronicling the he June 6, 1944, landing during World War II that led to the fall of Nazi Germany.

But in “When The Sea Came Alive: An Oral History of D-Day,” Graff brings together hundreds of eyewitness accounts to create a companion story to these works, expanding readers’ understanding of D-Day and offering a new and complete. in time for the 80th anniversary celebrations.

The oral history begins with a look at the planning of the operation, which dates back to 1943, and the training of personnel and equipment in the months leading up to the operation.

Graff uses a wide range and diversity of voices that give a fuller picture of the preparations for the invasion as well as the fighting itself. The book stands out for highlighting the experiences of black soldiers who landed on the beaches of D-Day and women who were part of history, such as correspondent Martha Gellhorn.

But it should come as no surprise that the most harrowing parts of the book remain the landing and the battles that took place on D-Day itself, with vivid first-hand accounts. Graff’s skills in examining accounts and documents drive the action throughout the book.

Graff’s book is a testament to the value of preserving memories of great historical events, demonstrating how much can be discovered in even the most familiar stories.

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