The format is oversize (10x12") to accommodate numerous illustrations (some 300 photos as well as maps and diagrams), but the text is dense with information; this is a thoroughly researched reference for military history aficionados, although less serious readers could also enjoy the browse. Stone is a former British army infantry officer who served in Germany and became a military historian in 2002. He begins with the German army in peace time (1918-1939), discusses the events of the war, and then moves backward in time to examine the creation of Hitler's army, rearmament, organization, uniforms and equipment, weapons, supporting arms and services, tactics and special operations, and, finally, the end of Hitler's army. The volume is enriched with numerous appendices, a German-English glossary, and a select bibliography. Zenith Press is an imprint of Quayside Publishing. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)