How Can Man Die Better

The Secrets of Isandlwana Revealed

By: Lieutenant Colonel Mike Snook, Brigadier David Keenan - foreword

Narrated by: Dennis Kleinman

On January 22, 1879, a massive Zulu host attacked the British Army's 24th Regiment in its encampment at the foot of the mountain of Isandlwana. It was the first major encounter in the Anglo-Zulu War and a disastrous defeat for the colonial power. Later that afternoon the victorious Zulus would strike the tiny British garrison at Rorke's Drift.

How Can Man Die Better is a unique analysis of the Battle of Isandlwana, covering the weapons, tactics, terrain, and the intriguing characters who made key military decisions. While much is still unknown about the battle, this work eschews the commonly held perception that the British collapse was sudden and that the 24th Regiment was quickly overwhelmed. Rather, historian Mike Snook argues that there was a protracted and heroic defense against a determined and equally heroic foe. A British Army colonel who served in South Africa, Snook reconstructs the final phase of the battle in a way that has never been attempted before.

©2005, 2010 Mike Snook (P)2021 Tantor

Excellent

I have read other books about the battle, but this one pointed out certain mistakes that the others did not catch. This and the author's intimate knowledge of the field and writing from a soldier's viewpoint enhanced the understanding of this battle far better. Of more importance is the fact that both sides were quoted. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the narrator was perfect.

Very clear and evocative.

I was moved to tears several times at the reconstruction of one of the most famous last stands in Western Military history. The clear narrative and the author’s unrelenting determination to get as many of the facts and sources that can be assembled with some degree of accuracy is heartening in a day and age of made up facts and historical short cuts.

Excellent researchabout Isandhlwana

Great storytelling and detailed research into the Isandhlwana Battle and what led to the outcome

A quick and well researched book!

Brilliantly narrated, easy listen for those interested in the history. It is fast paced, well researched and honest. Highly recommend!

Very detailed and attention grabbing

Go beyond the movies and YouTube and let Snook tell you what really must have happened based on facts, witness accounts and military logic to fill the gaps.

Told by a Soldier

This is a powerful, moving analysis of the tragedy that befell the 24th Foot and its mates at Isandlwana. Written by a consummate professional soldier, Lieutenant Colonel Snook allows us to experience the battle through the eyes of those who bled and died there. I felt I was there with those brave souls. It was hard to read as I knew I could put the book down and leave the battle but they who fought could not. This book should be required reading for all military officers. It highlights the dangers of racial bias and underestimating based on those notions.

Excellent work

This book was well researched and easy to listen to. I learned a lot. If you listen to this book you need to also listen to his other Book , “ Like wolves on the fold.