In "Salt Mines and Castles: The Discovery and Restitution of Looted European Art," Thomas Carr Howe provides a thorough and compelling account of the journey to recover stolen art treasures looted by the Nazis during World War II. Howe's meticulous research and vivid descriptions bring to life the harrowing experiences of art collectors, museum curators, and government officials who worked tirelessly to locate and return these priceless artworks to their rightful owners.

The author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making this complex and emotionally charged topic accessible to a wide audience. Howe's passion for the subject matter is evident throughout the book, and his deep respect for the victims of Nazi looting shines through in every chapter.

Overall, "Salt Mines and Castles" is a significant contribution to the literature on art restitution and the lasting impact of Nazi looting. Howe's meticulous research and empathetic storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history of stolen art and the ongoing fight for justice and restitution.

Book Description:
"From May 1945 until February 1946, I served as a Monuments, Fine Arts and Archives Officer in Germany. During the first four months of this assignment, I was engaged in field work which included the recovery of looted works of art from such out-of-the-way places as a monastery in Czechoslovakia, a salt mine in Austria, and a castle in Bavaria. Later, as Deputy Chief of the Monuments, Fine Arts and Archives Section, Office of Military Government, U. S. Zone, I participated in the restitution of recovered art treasures to the countries of rightful ownership.

This book is primarily an account of my own experiences in connection with these absorbing tasks; but I have also chronicled the activities of a number of my fellow officers, hoping thereby to provide the reader with a more comprehensive estimate of the work as a whole than the resumé of my own duties could have afforded." - Summary by Thomas Carr Howe, Jr.