Quick Take

In this remarkable memoir, journalist-historian William L. Shirer (1904-1993) describes his Midwest upbringing plus his young newspaper days in Paris and Europe. Writing a half century later, Shirer discusses growing up in Chicago and Cedar Rapids (Iowa) as horse-and-buggies gave way to autos and airplanes. Then it's off to Paris, where with incredible luck he landed a newspaper job during a visit in 1925. Shirer met an incredible number of notables, and here skillfully describes Clarence Darrow, Jack Dempsey, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Mahatma Gandhi, Isadora Duncan, Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, Douglas MacArthur, Grant Wood, etc. Along the way, readers see Shirer's humanely skeptical view of society, flavored by growing taste for wine, women, and song. The author also captures the sights, sounds, and feel of his beloved Paris; this book made a nice travel companion on a recent trip. Readers should enjoy every page, from Shirer's Midwest youth to his bachelor days in 1920's Paris. The

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Start: 1904-30 (20th Century Journey, #1)

Introduction

"The Start: 1904-30 (20th Century Journey, #1)" is a captivating memoir by journalist-historian William L. Shirer. Published in 1959, this book offers a glimpse into the author's Midwest upbringing and his early days as a reporter in Paris and Europe. Shirer's vivid descriptions of his experiences and encounters with notable figures from various fields make this book a delightful read. With its engaging narrative and historical context, "The Start" has garnered praise from readers who appreciate its nostalgic value and insights into the early 20th century.

About William L. Shirer

William Lawrence Shirer (1904-1993) was an American journalist and historian known for his remarkable broadcasts on CBS from the German capital of Berlin during World War II. Shirer's most significant works include "Berlin Diary," "The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich," and "The Collapse of the Third Republic." His ability to capture historical events and share his personal experiences has made him a respected figure in the field of journalism and history.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Narrative: Readers praise Shirer's storytelling abilities, describing the book as an engaging and captivating read. Shirer's vivid descriptions of his experiences and encounters with notable figures from various fields make the book enjoyable and memorable.
Insights into the Early 20th Century: Many readers appreciate the historical context provided by Shirer in "The Start." The book offers a unique perspective on life in the Midwest during the early 1900s, as well as the author's experiences as a young reporter in Paris during the 1920s. Readers find the insights into this era valuable and fascinating.
Nostalgic Value: The book's nostalgic value is a significant aspect that resonates with readers. Shirer's reminiscences about his youth and college years in the United States, as well as his time in Paris, evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. Readers enjoy reliving these memories through Shirer's writing.
Historical Significance: Shirer's extensive knowledge of history adds depth to the book's content. Readers appreciate the historical information and insights provided by the author, especially in relation to his experiences as a correspondent during World War II. The book's historical significance is a significant factor in its appeal.
Personal Reflections: Shirer's personal reflections on his life, his encounters with notable figures, and his observations on society add depth to the book's narrative. Readers find these reflections insightful and thought-provoking, providing a unique perspective on the events and people described in the book.

Reasons for Recommendation

Engaging Storytelling: Shirer's engaging storytelling style makes "The Start" a highly recommended book for readers who enjoy captivating narratives. The author's vivid descriptions and personal reflections create an immersive reading experience that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.
Historical Context: The historical context provided by Shirer makes "The Start" a valuable read for those interested in understanding the early 20th century. The book offers insights into various aspects of society, culture, and politics during this era, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the time period.
Nostalgic Value: The nostalgic value of "The Start" is another reason why it is recommended to readers. The book evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, allowing readers to reminisce about their own experiences or explore a different time period through Shirer's eyes. This nostalgic element adds depth and emotional resonance to the book.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Focus on Overseas Experiences: Some readers feel that the book's focus on Shirer's early life and experiences in the United States detracts from its potential as a memoir about his overseas experiences. While the book does touch upon his time in Paris and Europe, readers who are primarily interested in Shirer's foreign correspondence may find it less satisfying than expected.
Limited Insights into Shirer's Personal Life: While "The Start" provides insights into Shirer's personal reflections on society and his encounters with notable figures, some readers feel that it doesn't delve deeply into the author's personal life or emotions. Those seeking a more intimate understanding of Shirer's experiences may find this aspect lacking in comparison to other books by the author.

Conclusion

"The Start: 1904-30 (20th Century Journey, #1)" by William L. Shirer is a captivating memoir that offers readers a glimpse into the author's early life and experiences as a journalist in Paris during the 1920s. With its engaging narrative, historical context, nostalgic value, and personal reflections, this book has garnered praise from readers who appreciate its insights into the early 20th century. While some readers may feel that it lacks focus on Shirer's overseas experiences or delves less deeply into his personal life, overall, "The Start" remains a highly recommended read for those interested in journalism, history, and nostalgic storytelling.