Across the Reef: The Marine Assault of Tarawa by Joseph H. Alexander is a gripping account of one of the most brutal and costly battles of World War II. The author provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the Marine assault on the Pacific atoll of Tarawa, highlighting the immense challenges faced by the American forces in their efforts to secure the island.

Alexander's vivid descriptions and meticulous research bring to life the intense fighting that took place across the reef, as well as the tremendous sacrifices made by the Marines who bravely fought in the face of overwhelming opposition. The author does an excellent job of capturing the chaos and horror of the battle, while also providing valuable insights into the strategic decisions that shaped its outcome.

In addition to detailing the combat itself, Alexander also delves into the personal stories of the men who fought at Tarawa, adding a human element to the narrative that makes the book all the more poignant. By examining the perspectives of both American and Japanese soldiers, the author offers a well-rounded portrayal of the conflict that is both informative and engaging.

Overall, Across the Reef is a compelling and thought-provoking account of a pivotal moment in World War II history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the Pacific theater of the war, as well as those who appreciate well-researched and engaging military history.

Book Description:
"Tarawa Atoll is 2085 miles southwest of Pearl Harbor and 540 miles southeast of Kwajalein in the Marshalls. Betio is the principal island in the atoll. The Japanese seized Tarawa from the British within the first three days after Pearl Harbor. In August 1943, to meet in secret with Major General Julian C. Smith and his principal staff officers, Vice Admiral Raymond A. Spruance flew to New Zealand from Pearl Harbor. Spruance told the Marines to prepare for an amphibious assault against Japanese positions in the Gilbert Islands in November. General Smith’s operations officer, Lieutenant Colonel David M. Shoup, studied the primitive chart of Betio and saw that the tiny island was surrounded by a barrier reef. Shoup asked Spruance if any of the Navy’s experimental, shallow-draft, plastic boats could be provided. 'Not available,' replied the admiral, 'expect only the usual wooden landing craft.' Shoup frowned. General Smith could sense that Shoup’s gifted mind was already formulating a plan. The results of that plan were momentous. The Tarawa operation became a tactical watershed: the first, large-scale test of American amphibious doctrine against a strongly fortified beachhead." - Summary by Joseph H Alexander