Hitler's Savage Canary: A History of the Danish Resistance in World War II

The Danish resistance movement during WWII was incredible in both scope and zeal. Each chapter of Savage Canary covers a different aspect of the resistance movement from undergound printing presses to sabotage of German communications, railroad service, military lines. The description of how the resistance was able -- in all their myriad ways -- to contain a Wehrmacht division recalled from Norway in order to support the German front from the invading allies, boggles the mind. The resistance orchestrated the containment with great precision and detail. With this German division contained in Denmark, it aided in turning the tide of war in favor of the allies. Amazing also is how the resistance was able to smuggle 7200 Danish Jews into Sweden within 30 days. Some 500 Jews were captured by the Germans and deported but these Jews were the ones who refused to flee -- who couldn't believe the Germans would harm them. My only disappointment with the book is that a chapter had not been devoted to the monarchy....the only one Hitler allowed to remain on the throne. We know from history that King Christian was imprisoned for the duration of the war after he publicly spoke out against the Germans for their treatment of Danish strikers in Copenhagen. Although Sweden was generous in accepting Danish refugees, it is unclear how these refugees were treated -- whether they were allowed freedom to mingle with the native population or whether they were interned in refugee camps. It would have been nice if this aspect had been addressed. It's a good book, well worth the read.

I have never been prouder of my Danish heritage than after having read Hitler's Savage Canary. In a recent trip to Scandinavia we spent a considerable amount of time in the Norwegian resistance museum which was an inspriation to me. It never occurred to me that the Danes mounted a similar resistance movement. The Norwegian experience has always been so prominent in the many sagas of occupied countries' resistence against the Germans. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised given their Viking heritage, but the stories set out in the book made me examine my own personal fortitude. Would I have been so brave and resolute? My only regret is that the book was not longer so as to contain many more wonderful stories of my fellow Danish countrymen.This book is an excellent read for anyone interested in resistance movements in general and the Scandinavian experience in particular. I highly recommend it .

Essential reading of the occupation of Denmark by Germany in WWII. This book explains the background history of the relationship of Denmark to Germany before the war, so that the reader has a better understanding of Germany's strategy in occupying Denmark instead of "invading". The Danish people, those of the resistance and others not directly involved in the covert sabotage operations, are brought to light in the big picture of the occupation. It is a good read and provides better understanding of this part of WWII.

An extremely informative, well-researched, well-written account of exceptionally brave men and women toiling under the most dangerous of conditions in a noble cause. Each chapter, while not linked narratively, tells of a different aspect of the Danish Resistance in such a way as to compellingly hold the reader's interest. It's easy to forget in the 21st century how perilous were the times of the 1940s, but the late David Lampe has described them here in appropriately clear and understated, yet respectful, terms. Well worth the cost, and will stay with you for quite awhile.

Although I found the lack of citations rather peculiar for a history book in general the book was very good and helped me realize that the Danish were far from over when their country was overrun by the Germans. I was somehow under the impression that they were "docile" and accepted their fate but I was very wrong. However I believe that the stories depicted in the book must be a detailed account of what was happening since a Danish ambassador is forewording the book.

An excellent and sometimes humorous account of Danish Resistance doings in WWII.Obviously written, somewhat matter-of-fact-ly, by an author whose native language is the Queen's English. We Americans may find it strange to be riding around in a "saloon" (something like a limousine), etc.All that said, the accounts are so fascinating that the book definitely rates five stars for interest and intrigue.

Great obscure story. So glad I happened on to this gem about the daring Danish resistance during WWII. Makes me proud to be married to a Dane.Another reminder that the world is full of heroes to match its villains.

I can't review for content because the print is very small and faint. I simply can't physically read this book.

These are all true stories, but the different events would not be out off place in an action packed thriller. Bravo the Danish people at all levels.

Bought as a Christmas gift. The recipient was very pleased.

Book is o.k., not the best one I've read on this subject. That's why I gave it 3 stars.