Flags of Our Fathers

James Bradley · Ron Powers

Jan 2006 · Penguin Random House Audio · Narrated by Stephen Hoye

About this audiobook

Now abridged for young people, Flags of Our Fathers is the unforgettable chronicle of perhaps the most famous moment in American military history: the raising of the U. S. flag at Iwo Jima. Here is the true story behind the immortal photograph that has come to symbolize the courage and indomitable will of America.

In February 1945, American Marines plunged into the surf at Iwo Jima–and into history. The son of one of the flag raisers has written a powerful account of six very different men who came together in the heroic battle for the Pacific’s most crucial island.

Ratings and reviews

While the story was in depth and well written, I found some chapters repetitive. Also, from a marine and historical standpoint, I must add that the Marine Corps did not find its first real use in WWII as stated early on. A short dive into military history would reveal heroism portrayed equally in the first world war. Battles such as Belleau Wood stand to reason. I say this not as an antagonist but simply to honor the sacrifice of previous Marines. Great book otherwise.

A little slow going at first it seems. But later you realize it is important to get to know each character. Great book about a bunch of HEROS!

About the author

James Bradley is the son of John "Doc" Bradley, one of the six flag raisers. A speaker and a writer, he lives in Rye, New York. For more information, visit jamesbradley.com.

Ron Powers is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. He is the author of White Town Drowsing and Dangerous Water: A Biography of the Boy Who Became Mark Twain. He lives in Vermont.

Stephen Hoye has worked as a professional actor in London and Los Angeles for more than 30 years. Trained at Boston University and The Guildhall in London, he has appeared in several feature films, television series, and on stage in London’s West End.