Military Model Scene

Title: TankCraft 39, Sherman, Italy 1943-45
Author: Dennis Oliver
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-39906-508-5

The Sherman Medium Tank, as used by the Canadian, New Zealand and South African armies in Italy, 1943-45, and it marks number 39 in the TankCraft series of books from Pen & Sword, and another from author Dennis Oliver. As usual for this popular series, a 64-page soft-cover book aimed firmly at armour modellers. Not the first in the series to focus on the Sherman but with one focuses on it in use by Commonwealth units in the war in Italy.
The first 16-pages cover the basic history of each of the armoured components of the Canadian, New Zealand and South African armoured divisions/brigades that fought in Italy between 1943 & 1945. Each has a good clear organisation chart and there is a table detailing the number of each Sherman variant used by the individual units. This is followed but a 10-page section on camouflage & markings which includes super artwork with colour profiles plus extra detail on unit and other markings. Then we get into the Model Showcase, with 2 beautifully built 1/35 models, plus a third feature with a Sherman V with an M19 Tank Transporter in 1/76, a marvellous build from MAFVA member Neil Craig. Next is the section listing appropriate models and accessories for those wanting to make something from one of these units in Italy. That leaves the final section of the book covering Technical Details & Modifications which provide notes on how to recognise each of the different Sherman variants you might find in archive photos.
As well as the artwork and model photos, there are plenty of archive images which will provide lots more detail and inspiration for modellers. Just to pick one example, it shows some locally converted Fascine Carriers, based on turretless Sherman hulls. Another really good mix of historical information and modelling detail for Shermans in the Italian Campaign.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for the review copy.

Robin