Lisa Pine's excellent new book is advertised as a second edition but it is much more than that ... [Her] analysis is balanced and lucid throughout. One of the characteristics of her approach is her meticulous attention at every stage to the arguments of previous scholars. This makes her book ideal for students at every level and indeed for anyone involved in teaching. It is difficult to think of a better text to recommend on this subject. Libraries and individuals who own the first edition will simply have to buy the second. They will be richly rewarded with a superb survey of German social history under National Socialism. It is without doubt by far the best book of its kind for over 40 years.

Journal of European Studies

Pine's excellent overview of the social and cultural history of Nazi Germany is an ideal resource for scholars and students. This concise survey of the most recent historiography synthesizes key scholarship on conformity and consent in the Third Reich. Pine provides insightful analysis of a disturbing reality: there was widespread popular consent for Nazi policies, especially persecution of 'social outsiders,' based on pre-existing prejudice and the desire to belong in the 'national community.' Pine's skillful writing and expertise on daily life in Nazi Germany brilliantly illuminates how a modern, 'civilized' society can descend into barbarity.

Jason Crouthamel, Grand Valley State University, USA

A clear and effective introduction to the Third Reich. The concept of National Community, of its alignments and ideology, and of those excluded from it, proves highly effective. This is also a significant contribution to the impact of power and ideology in mid-twentieth century Europe. Deserves wide ranging attention.

Jeremy Black, University of Exeter, UK

A pioneer in the study of families in Nazi Germany, Lisa Pine now reviews the history of the regime and its people from a gamut of timely perspectives. Students can now turn here for a judiciously conceived overview of an always challenging subject, written by a skilled and seasoned teacher.

Nathan Stoltzfus, Florida State University, USA

An excellent overview with an original contribution to make to the social history of Nazi Germany - one of the most useful books I've found for teaching this subject.

Tim Kirk, Newcastle University, UK