Like other titles in Abdo’s Essential Library, this is solid, if simplistic, overview of the life and military career of Patton.  I learned much about his childhood and adolescence that I did not know. It was suggested that Patton might have suffered from dyslexia and ADD, which might account for his poor grades. However, it is his military brilliance and incidents of jealousy and bad temper for which he is most often remembered, not his record in school. The book is very balanced in its treatment of Patton, not glossing over his tirades, but providing background and the big picture to put the events in perspective. The book focuses on his military accomplishments – his training programs, tactical brilliance and his relationship with his men. A Timeline, Glossary and list for Further Reading are provided if the reader would like more information.