Berlin Games (UK)

The 1936 Olympic Games, held in Berlin, was the most political sporting encounter of the twentieth century. It was famed for its spirit of ferocious competition and the rise of legends such as Jesse Owens. But it also forecast the horrors of World War Two and served as a crucible for these dark forces. The Berlin Games brought together athletes, politicians, socialites, diplomats, journalists, soldiers and artists from all over the world. It was the last time they would meet in peace. But hostilities bubbled below the surface as Hitler determined the Games would showcase Nazi prowess and athletes became pawns in his political game. From the fascinating set-piece of the Games, Guy Walters stretches story across a broad canvas, placing those crucial weeks in August in the wider context of the 30s. With Second World War expertise and brilliant narrative flair, Guy Walters brings a wide cast of characters and complex political situation thrillingly alive.