"Vasilis Vourkoutiotis's book is the first overall examination of the evolution, in policy and practice, of the German High Command's treatment of American and British Commonwealth prisoners of war (POWs) during the Second World War. Based on archival research in Germany, the United States, Great Britain, and Canada, the book is unparalleled in the breadth and depth of its scope. The policies of the German High Command are analyzed carefully and their impact upon the actual quality of life of the POWs is measured by investigating almost a thousand reports by International Red Cross and Protecting Power (Swiss diplomatic) delegates who were given access to the camps where POWs were held.

The archival depth of the book ensures that it is a valuable resource for professional historians, while the presentation and analysis remain within the reach of the enthusiastic amateur."--Jacket.