Naval History, December 2007 (circ.: 60,000)

“Joseph Springer brings to life one of the most exciting stories of World War II as seen and told from the perspective of officers and Sailors who served on board the Essex-class aircraft carrier USS Franklin. The author has crafted a well-researched and easy-to-read oral history that not only pays tribute to the men who sailed in the Franklin but to the legacy of naval service and its values of honor, courage, and commitment … This book is a fitting tribute to the crew members of the Franklin and all the Sailors who fought during World War II.”

World War II Database, November 2007 (vpm: 30,000)

“I was immediately impressed by Springer's writing style, which was straight-forward but was done without sacrificing detail. He professed that his interest in the history of USS Franklin had been nearly life-long, and it showed. The book delivered in clear detail everything encompassing the ship's history, configuration throughout the war, and the environments she had been in. Springer also succeeded in providing just enough information about the Pacific War so to shine light on why Franklin engaged in actions that she did … With this book, the men of Franklin, along with their courage in the face of disaster and their accomplishment of bringing the devastated ship back home on her own power, were made known.

I highly recommend Inferno, a history told with harrowing and gripping detail.”

Midwest Book Review, November 2007

“A gripping true story of bravery and sacrifice, featuring the words of men who served aboard ‘Big Ben’ as well as a handful of black and white photographs. A welcome addition to naval and World War II history shelves.”

Midwest Book Review, December 2007

“A gripping true story of bravery and sacrifice, featuring the words of the men who served aboard ‘Big Ben’ as well as a handful of black and white photographs. A welcome addition to naval and World War II history shelves.”