Here's what people are saying about the book (And my Book talks)

Donald Smith's micro-history of the tiny postwar Berlin suburb of Steinstuecken offers a macro-historical view of larger Cold War complexities and dangers—especially the drama of whether an overextended America could stand up to nonstop Soviet pressure, the maze of occupation rivalries among British, French, and American forces, and the plucky spirit of Steinstuecken residents to trust in the protection of far-off America rather than give in to the overwhelming power of nearby communism. An engaging study of what a few brave people can do to preserve their freedom against overwhelming odds. Victor Davis HansonThe Hoover Institution, Stanford UniversityAuthor, The Second World Wars. ..........................................................................................................
A wonderful David and Goliath story about the brave citizens of this little hamlet and the courageous American MPs, aviators and diplomats who came to protect them. Any student of the Cold War, Berlin, or Germany needs to read this well researched and grippingly told book. Ambassador John Emerson U.S. Ambassador to Germany, 2013-2017 .........................................................................................................
An intriguing read for everyone interested in German and Cold War history. The detailed account of the faith of one small exclave of West Berlin exemplifies the difficulties of the post-war world order very well.Dr. Marcel P. Rotter Chair, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures University of Mary Washington ..........................................................................................................
Donald Smith's book shines a welcome light on a relatively unknown story of Cold War Berlin. A Cold War veteran himself, Don's diligent research has created a fascinating, accessible and gripping book that is the most comprehensive account in English of the enclave of Steinstueken. With many never before seen photos, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in Berlin and Cold War history. Ian Sanders Host & Producer of the Cold War Conversations podcast. ...........................................................................................................
Our monthly program at the library was well attended when Don came to talk about the little know history of the small town of Steinsteucken during the Cold War. Very knowledgeable, armed with great visual aids, Don kept us entertained and we all came out saying, “Wow, I didn’t know that.” Highly recommended. And his book has been checked out continuously since we purchased it. Had to get multiple copies.
Rochelle CollinsReference LibrarianBay County Library System Bay City, Michigan
....................................................................................................... Don's book is thoroughly researched with photo evidence of the events in it. The book mixes journalistic integrity, with a true story told well, including the human elements that provide the glue to hold the parts together. It assures that this important piece of the Cold War does not go down the memory hole.Charles Heller Host, "Liberty Watch" Radio AM 1030 KVOI Tucson. .............................................................................................................
I am the program director of the Saddlebrooke World War II Roundtable in Tucson, Arizona. We discuss all aspects of WW II. After reading an article by Mr. Don Smith in World War II magazine on municipal elections in Berlin shortly after the war I sought him out. Don spoke to our Roundtable on how the early elections were a weathervane for the coming Cold War.
Seventy-five of our members were enthralled by his presentation. Using a few well-chosen slides he spoke for about an hour on a subject none of us had even heard of before. A lively Q&A followed. Don is obviously used to addressing audiences and our appreciative members gave him their complete attention.
After the program I asked him to come back next year and he readily agreed, mentioning several topics he could speak on. Our members will be very pleased to see him again.
Larry Linderman, program director
.............................................................................................................. Donald Smith’s presentation on his book Steinstuecken: A Little Pocket of Freedom was very well attended and informative. The title represents both an interesting look at a small community trying to maintain the semblance of ordinary life in difficult circumstances and an examination of the global political maneuvering that created it. It is a must buy for any library’s Cold War collection. Bradley KaneAdult Services LibrarianBartlett Public Library DistrictBartlett, Illinois