Peter Townsend Knihy

In May 1940, Group Captain Peter Townsend took command of 85 Squadron, tasked with preparing it for the defence of Great Britain against German bombers. It was the beginning of the long, hot, lethal summer in which the RAF and the Luftwaffe fought to the death over England in the furious conflict which ultimately saved Britain from Nazi invasion. DUEL OF EAGLES, Townsend's gripping account of the Battle of Britain, is widely acknowledged as the classic account of this desperate, defining clash. Townsend tells the story of dogfights in the sky from the perspectives of pilots on both sides - including his own - and traces the background of the conflict, from the years of secret preparation in Germany following the end of the First World War to the ruthless political manoeuvres played out on the ground in England as the RAF was established. This dramatic and evocative account of the air battles which changed the course of the Second World War and the people involved is a powerful and epic telling of one of the greatest triumphs in British military history. 'A remarkable exercise in research at air-crew levels. He writes of air combat with verve and at times almost with poetry' Sunday Times 'Lively and well written ... encompasses moments of exhilaration and terror' Kirkus Reviews 'A fine book' Len Deighton, New York Times

"The best sort of popular military history"--Times Literary Supplement. Sixty years ago, in England's summer skies, history's greatest air battle raged. In a decisive moment, those whom Churchill so famously addressed as "the few" thwarted Hitler's planned invasion. Over 160 graphic images and riveting testimony by Allied and Luftwaffe pilots, ground crew, and civilians paint a panoramic portrait of this confrontation. Pictures of wartime locations as they were then and are now, plus vintage photos from scrapbooks and diary excerpts, provide a uniquely personal perspective.

One of the most depressing realities of modern life is the regularity with which deadly attacks are carried out in the name of Islam. Almost as depressing are the invariable reassurances by Western political leaders and media elites that these acts of violence had "nothing to do with Islam." Yet, niggling doubts remain. Why, if Islam is indeed a "religion of peace," do these attacks keep coming? Why are the vast majority of acts of terror in our world today carried out by people steeped in the teachings of the Qur'an? With his new book, "Nothing to do with Islam"? - Investigating the West's Most Dangerous Blind Spot, Peter Townsend (author of the highly acclaimed Questioning Islam - Tough Questions and Honest Answers about the Muslim Religion) examines the evidence as far as the possible link between Islam and violence is concerned. He does this by carefully analyzing the foundational texts of Islam (most notably the Qur'an and traditions), as well as the canonical set of stock responses whenever such a link is asserted. The question whether Islam promotes violence could very well be one of the most important questions ever faced by Western civilization. It deserves more attention and analysis than a few glib sound bites. Nothing to do with Islam? provides you with the opportunity to examine this question from all angles and come to your own conclusions.

This is not only a definitive history of the six weeks over which the Battle of Britain took place, it is also a fast-moving narrative drawing on accounts from combatants on both sides. On August 13th, 1940 - Eagle Day - the long-awaited assault on the RAF was launched. Over the coming weeks the south coast of England was subject to wave after wave of attack, culminating on September 15th with the greatest offensive yet. But each time the German planes were met with a fierce resistance. This book traces the course of the Battle of Britain as it unfolded. It gives first-hand accounts of the individual pilots who daily faced the danger of gunfire, burning planes and crash landings in the sea. It tells of the dismay experienced by the men and women at RAF stations like Biggin Hill and Manston, which experienced some of the worst bombing of all. It also recounts the stories of the German pilots whose skill and determination so frequently ended in disaster.

Exploring the science of imperfections, this book highlights their significant impact on technology and various aspects of life, including society, love, health, and politics. It emphasizes the importance of understanding imperfections to address scientific misinformation and engage with pressing environmental issues. The engaging narrative aims to enlighten readers about the pervasive role of imperfections in shaping our world.

Exploring the isolation of the elderly, this work presents findings from in-depth interviews with pensioners in Bethnal Green, East London. The author delves into the family dynamics and societal perceptions surrounding older individuals, shedding light on their experiences and relationships. By examining the connections—or lack thereof—between the elderly and their families, the book raises important questions about aging and community support.

Exploring the theme of love in a modern context, this poetry collection offers a heartfelt journey toward healing and reconnection. It emphasizes the importance of self-comfort, expression, and reflection, using poetry as a tool to navigate mental health challenges. The verses encourage open communication and understanding, inviting readers to embrace their experiences and share their vulnerabilities. Through this collection, the author shares a personal journey while inspiring others to find solace and connection in their own lives.

Focusing on Peter Townsend's extraordinary life, the narrative explores his role as an equerry to King George VI and his significant contributions as a hero during the Battle of Britain. The book delves into his deep and complex relationship with Princess Margaret, highlighting their enduring love amidst the constraints of royal expectations. It captures the essence of a man who navigated the challenges of duty, romance, and personal sacrifice during a pivotal time in British history.

Après plusieurs séances d'entretiens avec une famille de Boat-People, Vietnamiens d'origine chinoise émigrés en Australie, Peter Townsend a pu reconstituer leur éprouvante odyssée. C'est leur fille de 13 ans, Hué Hué, qui est l'héroïne centrale du récit. Laissée seule sur un récif au milieu de ses compagnons morts de faim ou d'épuisement, elle a réussi à se faire rescaper et à retrouver ses parents. Une leçon de force et de courage.