With an approachable introduction by the justly celebrated ski historian E. John B. Allen, Skis in the Art of War offers advice, of course, on martial matters... [and] holds wisdom for the contemporary skier. Thoroughly engaging.
~The Wall Street Journal
Skis in the Art of War, along with its prefacing commentary, gives readers insight into the topic of winter warfare conditions, and ski culture and history, at the intersection of environment and technology studies. This fascinating source is sure to benefit a wide variety of readers, from historians of Europe, Russia, the Arctic, and the environment, to those broadly interested in ski and military history.
~H-net
Expert translation and commentary by ski historians Frank and Allen have produced this compelling version of a Russian manual of ski-based training and combat from 1912. [The] final sections of technical detail provide a fascinating glimpse into the international cooperation, civil society initiatives, and interwoven military-athletic culture of pre-1914 Europe.
~Choice
...an outstanding translation with commentary.... a superbly presented, brilliantly researched and readable book. All the original 119 illustrations, line drawings and photographs are reproduced with remarkable clarity.
~Slavonic and East European Review
Recently translated from the original Russian by William D. Frank and E. John B. Allen, and completed with commentary, explanations of technical terminology, and beautifully transferred sketches and images, this book is a work of passion for skiing and athletics by its author, and a substantial achievement for those who worked to bring it to a modern readership.
~Canadian Slavonic Papers
Thanks to this magnificent translation, the reader can enjoy this excellent work that would otherwise have been very difficult due to its original language. [T]he notes section, with comments provided by professors Frank and Allen, is simply masterful. [T]he bibliography is nothing short of a treasure.
~Journal of Sport History