Books 2024: Winston Churchill’s Public Service Examined in Memorabilia

Book: A Churchill Treasury: Sir Winston’s Public Service Through Memorabilia

Author: Brian E. Krapf

Reviewed by: Christopher Smith, attorney in Macon, Ga., and the honorary consul of Denmark in Georgia

The life and times of Sir Winston Churchill have been well documented. Thus, one might think nothing further could be written about the great man.

However, that has now been accomplished in Brian E. Krapf’s groundbreaking new book.

Drawing his inspiration from collecting “Churchilliana” for more than 30 years, annual visits to England and his deep knowledge of history, the Savannah, Ga.-based author has broken new ground with his work. The same impressed the venerable Yorkshire-based publishing house Pen & Sword enough to publish the book.

What do posters, buttons, china, mugs, carvings, figurines and a wide variety of other collectibles tell us about the late, great statesman? Actually quite a lot when one reads the stories Krapf has penned to accompany them along with the excellent color photos that fill the pages of the book. Each item reflects an important slice of time in world history.

Importantly, the memorabilia gives the reader a glimpse into the mindset of those who so revered the statesman that they were willing to part with their pounds to purchase them.

Dubbed by many as the “indispensable man” of the 20th century, Churchill’s courage and indomitable spirit still inspire people the world over to this day. He suffered defeats and setbacks his entire life but had the resilience to never give up — lessons that resonate with anyone stiving hard to achieve a goal.

As well noted, Churchill’s mother was American and his father was English. With that in view, this American author’s teaming with an English publisher is another wonderful example of our two countries’ collaborative trans-Atlantic relationship. A great addition to any library and a great gift for young people to read too.

Editor’s notes: Global Atlanta will receive a 10 percent commission on any purchase of this book through the links on this page. 

Each year, Global Atlanta asks influential readers and community leaders to review the most impactful book they read during the course of the year. This endeavor has continued annually since 2010.

See last year’s full list of books on BookShop here and see Global Atlanta’s full store, featuring Reader Picks lists going back to 2013 along with lists of books we’ve covered through stories or author talks.

All books were chosen and reviews written independently, with only mild editing from our staff.