1942 by Robert Conroy - Book Review

1942 by Robert Conroy is an alternative history novel that considers the implications of a "third strike" on Pearl Harbor in 1941. The book's plot is pedestrian and formulaic. The premise itself is enjoyable, but not original. Its execution is weak as characters and events do not ring true. It is enjoyable escapist reading suitable for travel that will satisfy lovers of the genre, but is not a great work of fiction nor an exemplar of its category.

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in real life failed to accomplish its goals because Admiral Nagumo departed after 2 aerial attacks. The "third strike" has become a regular topic of alternative history. 1942 is a junior varsity entry.

Robert Conroy's books are quite formulaic. Many characters and plot devices stay the same. The protagonist is a junior American officer of little note. He's of modest background and has been overlooked. Conflict arises and he is thrust into circumstances he's not prepared for, but somehow succeeds. He exhibits a patriotism and honor that doesn't seem quite believable, but fits with our imaginations regarding earlier generations. He saves an upper class woman from tragedy. The protagonist and his upper class lady fall in love and survive the war to live happily ever after. The US is on the verge of utter failure, but then somehow an improbable series of events enables the US to achieve rapid success. Check out Conroy's other books, such as 1862 and 1901 to see the pattern.

1942 suffers from other flaws. Characters are not well developed. Battles are not described in an accurate and detailed fashion. Japanese military performance is inexplicable. Are we really to belief that Japan would conquer Hawaii and then leave it so poorly garrisoned and patrol it so loosely? Could Admiral Yamamoto so easily blunder into a clear and devastating trap?

Forget Conroy's version of the "third strike" and read Turtledove or Gingrich's versions.