The Reason Why

Cecil Woodham-Smith's The Reason Why is one of the great narrative histories of the Crimean War. Drawing on unpublished papers, she uncovers the bitter feud between the Earl of Lucan and his brother-in-law the Earl of Cardigan, and the blunders behind the Charge of the Light Brigade at Balaclava. Her gripping storytelling, from duels and courts martial to the charge itself, has made it a favourite with readers of military history for generations.

A handsome hardback with its original dust jacket, the 1953 first edition from Constable, complete with the 15s net price printed on the flap. The jacket shows a striking painting of the cavalry charge, and the book includes a fine colour plate of a hussar officer. Book: Good.

A firm, sound binding with a bright colour plate. Some light foxing and tanning to the endpapers and early pages. Dust jacket: Fair.

Present and original, with chipping and small tears to the spine top and corners, and edge wear. A pre-owned book; any wear beyond that described is minor and in keeping with its age.

Collector's notes

• A classic account of the Charge of the Light Brigade, based on unpublished papers.
• Published by Constable and Company Ltd., London, 1953.
• First UK edition, first published 1953.
• Dust jacket with printed price 15s net, unclipped.

A fine addition to any military history shelf.