Paul Johnson's "Horses of the German Army in WW II" goes a long way toward dispelling the myth of an all-motorized German army in WWII. Unbeknownst to most people, the German army was about 80% horse-drawn or foot-marching at the start of the war, and became even more dependent upon horse power (literally) as the war progressed. Johnson's book is clear in outlining the German reliance on the horse, and in pointing out the backbreaking nature of horse logistics. Based on solid study and Mr. Johnson's outstanding personal collection of horse equipment, the book is a goldmine of detail regarding the technique of moving an army with horses. The book includes meticulous postwar studies which evaluate the efficiency of German horse employment, including such details as veterinary care, feeding requirements and shoeing. No serious student of WWII can afford to ignore this comprehensive study, nor should anyone seeking a really interesting read about the great struggle.

Overall a very good book showing not only the use of horses by the German Wehrmacht in WWII but also detailed explanations and photographs of the equipment used by mounted troops. Of all the books out there covering the German Kavallerie formations, this is one of the top offerings concerning equipment and field gear coverage. Two small shortcomings: 1)The first seven chapters are extracts from US Military History Institute publications although they are still informative and well written. 2) Although most of the modern color photos of equipment is large size and detailed, several are not focused correctly. Other than these two minor issues, I would highly recommend this book for research, hobbyists or collectors.