The Pattons: A Personal History of an American Family

The author, grandson of the WW II hero, uses previously unavailable correspondence and records to offer a case study of the family structure that produced and sustained one of America's greatest generals. George S. Patton (1885-1945) was by his own admission ``not normal.'' Egocentric and selfish, the product of an indulged childhood, he cultivated a self-image as a warrior-knight. Patton's immaturity embraced both an absence of malice and a need for constant condoning of his actions, including those based on prejudices and ignorances. Patton's wife and children excused his flaws and excesses because life with him was an exhilarating drama; his superiors forgave him because they liked him personally and respected him professionally. Readers may wish more attention had been paid to the general's military career. Photos not seen by PW. (Mar.)