Comments: Hardcover, 236 pages, all black-and-white photos

ISBN: 978-1-4728-1755-6

Price: $30

Publisher: Osprey

From the publisher: When British soldiers charged across the Somme in September 1916 they were accompanied by a new, revolutionary weapon — the tank. After a stuttering start armored behemoths such as the Mark IV, Mark V and Whippet tank played a crucial role in bringing World War I to an end, but were then inexplicably rejected by their country of origin.

Marking the centenary of their battlefield debut this comprehensive volume traces the design and development of the famous British weapon system, from the initial concept of a steam powered tank during the Crimean War to the role the British military played in creating the infamous German Blitzkrieg tactic of World War II. Bolstered by historic photographs and stunning illustrations, author David Fletcher brings us the thrilling history behind British battle tanks.

FSM says: Osprey hardcovers are beautifully presented books. Much of the material here has been published before in smaller books in the New Vanguard series covering British World War I tanks and some from between the wars. Informative text is paired with period photos, color profiles, and cutaways give the reader a sense of the important role British tank development had on the role of armor in 20th century conflict. Modelers will appreciate the photos and drawings for details and dioramas.