Land Forces & Warfare

Land forces war books give us modern insight into historical horrors. They can highlight the heroism and sacrifices of soldiers, showcase impossible feats, and share personal stories amidst the madness.

These stories are gripping and remarkable, and Booktopia is proud to carry a huge selection of military books, both from around the world and here in Australia.

Australian land forces books
Peter Fitzsimmons is one of Australia’s greatest historians, writing numerous historical non-fiction books about many of our country’s most notable people and events. In The Last Charge of the Australian Light Horse, he shares the history of the men who fought from the backs of horses throughout World War II. With his characteristic storytelling, Fitzsimmons brings to life the unforgettable characters of the time, and how they each played their roles in history.

Another great read from an Australian author is Jungle Warriors. It explores how Australian army forces went from untrained military in 1939 to expert jungle operatives by 1945 – and created an international reputation for top level jungle combat pros in the process. The book leaves no stone unturned, explaining the changes to weapons, equipment, tactics, and training that it took, as well as the painful lessons learned along the way.

For a different take on land forces books, try Caught in the Crossfire. This is the story of an Australian peacekeeper caught in a full-scale war in 2006 at the border junction of Lebanon, Israel, and Syria. It’s the first-hand account from Major Matina Jewell and the experiences that led her to receive six Australian Defence Force service medals and two war decorations from the Lebanese Government.

Popular land forces war books
Churchill’s Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is often hilarious, always remarkable, and sometimes hard to believe. It shares the previously untold story of the six men who were part of a top-secret organisation designed to bring down Hitler’s war machine – by any means possible. Through guerilla warfare, secret missions, and legendary feats of bravery, author Giles Milton explains how this small team helped change the tide of the war.

Take a step forward in time and read about Ukraine’s foreign legion in The Mad and the Brave. This is the story of some of the many foreigners who signed up to help fight in Ukraine, including experienced army veterans and those who had zero military training alike.