Bat Bomb: World War II's Other Secret Weapon

great book, and of course Marines..........

This book contains the funniest line I have ever read, already quoted by another reviewer: "We got a sure thing like the bat bomb going...." But there is much more to this book. The writing is incredible. For example, the author describes what happens when they use movie lights to illuminate the inside of one cave for the first time in its history. The description of almost being suffocated by clouds of bats so thick is first rate. Also, the tender retelling of his romance with Arlie is top notch. Who would have expected such deft handling of first love in a book about bat bombs? It made me want more of this material. I also treasured the retelling of the tiger mascot, "Top Sarge." Or when our hero tries to beat the cowboys at their own game in calf-roping. I could go on and on. I think the key to the success of this book is how the author treats all the characters with upmost respect. There is nothing snarky about how the author treats the self-important Patsy, who was Capone's driver, or the guano salesman.Read this book. You won't be disappointed.

I stumbled across this little gem of a book quite accidentally. The premise of the book was off-beat...a kookie group of American misfits bands together during World War II in order to come up with a new wonder weapon: a bomb which would dislodge incendiary-carrying bats over Japanese cities. The idea was weird enough, but the storyline developed with a more-weird set of characters and circumstances. The unbelievable part of the whole thing is the story is entirely true! The US DID try to construct such a weapon during World War II. And, had it actually been used, it would probably have proven to be a great success. This book was captivating from start to finish. The adventures and misadventures of the characters, to include real-life cowboy-movie star Tim Holt, held my interest from cover to cover. Hey...any director out there in Hollywoodland - here's a great story to be told on the big screen as an action-packed, comedy and drama. As for everyone else, grab this book and be prepared to laugh.

As advertised. Great condition and arrived nicely packed. No 1-ply plastic envelop. Bubble-lined mailer protected cover and corners. Well done. Thanks!

During WWII, many unorthadox avenues of attack were explored for gaining an edge on America's adversaries. One imaginative idea was the bat bomb, a just-so-crazy-it-could-work concept whose genesis and development are spelled out here, including fascinating facts about bats that lend themselves to such a project, and at least a few comical mishaps endured while testing the technology. Bat lovers and history buffs are sure to enjoy "Bat Bomb: World War II's Other Secret Weapon."

A Five Stars Plus story, and no caveats required. Funny, charming, intelligent, perceptive and informative, "Bat Bomb" has to be the best little-known book I have ever read, and is significantly better than most bestsellers. Jack Couffer writes with clarity, flair and humor of the implausible (but conceivably decisive) weapons research he participated in as a teenager during WW II. The story and cast of characters would entertain even in clumsy hands; in Couffer's hands, they shine. At the going rate for a used copy of $8-10 including shipping, this book is one of the best deals out there, entertainment per dollar. Get it. Read it. Loan it out. Demand a reprint.

Jack Couffer has led an amazing life. He writes very well, and I could not put the book down when I first read it many years ago. Had to get new copy for grand kids. This is a fascinating and educational (never go into a large bat gave without protective clothing) book about a period of time in U.S. History through which I lived, thankfully in the U.S.A.

Purchased this book as a gift for my partner, who loves history and researches bats. He loved it! Nice artwork on cover, arrived in great condition. Thanks!

An engaging read regarding one of the stranger projects of World War II. The book arrived promptly and in excellent condition. Thank you.