by RNS | Sep 29, 2022 | Beating Tsundoku
Robert K Liu, Naval Ship Models of World War II in 1/1250 and 1/1200 Scales (Pen & Sword)
In his introduction to this fascinating book, Robert Liu writes: ‘In the end, there is simply nothing like the satisfaction of having completed a difficult enhancement or a scratch-built model.’ His book demonstrates why that is and how you can follow in his wake when making your own models.
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Liu begins with the production methods used for creating models, from die-cast to 3D printing, then the tools and techniques to enhance them – this includes a photograph of his ‘busy’ workbench that will have many modellers nodding their heads in recognition and approval. For the rest of the book, Liu embarks on a voyage through many different types of model ships and how to model them into accurate replicas: anti-aircraft ships. landing craft, submarines, destroyers, cruisers, carriers, battleships, Liberty ships, transports and convoy rescue craft among many others, and he adds Allied and Axis aircraft. Liu concludes with an informative glossary and a perhaps surprisingly lengthy bibliography.
Liu’s book is about as niche as it gets when it comes to subject matter, but it is still an engrossing read for modellers even if you have only a modicum of interest in wee model ships. Liu’s passion for his hobby shines through, and he sprinkles his text with autobiographical notes of a full and sometimes astonishing life. The book is also lavishly illustrated with photographs of model ships in all stages of production. Overall, this is an excellent homage to Liu’s craft and the ships he replicates.
by RNS | Sep 1, 2022 | Beating Tsundoku
Gabriele Esposito, The Macedonian Army of Philip II and Alexander the Great, 359-323BC (Pen & Sword, 2022)
This ambitious book undertakes to describe the development of the Macedonian army and its organization and equipment, through the reigns of Philip II and his son Alexander the Great.
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Esposito begins with a survey of Macedonia and its warlike neighbours who retarded its progress. Then along came Philip II in 359, just 23 years old but keen to establish Macedonia as a power. To do that, he needed to reform his military, which he managed through studying Greek reforms and introducing his own elements. Philip succeeded but was assassinated before he could appreciate the fruits of his efforts. That brought his son Alexander to centre stage. Esposito narrates the familiar story of Alexander’s ascendancy before describing his army that carried him into Persia and beyond and established his greatness. Esposito also describes the armies Alexander faced on his journey. He concludes with a study of Macedonian weapons and equipment.
As an introduction to the military history of the great era of Macedonia, this book works well enough. The text is functional, based on a thin bibliography constructed of Osprey books, Ancient Warfare magazine articles, and a selection of primary sources, though none are referenced within the text. What makes Esposito’s growing list of books on uniforms and equipment different is his use of photographs of reenactors rather than artwork to illustrate his text. I don’t think this quite works because it looks like they are wearing costumes – too clean, too ‘modern’ – rather than men in battle, but the reproduction weapons look more authentic. Wargamers and beginner students will find this book a useful starting point.
