A book published by Northern Illinois University Press, “Hitler’s Priests: Catholic Clergy and National Socialism” by Kevin P. Spicer, was reviewed in the Aug. 3 edition of The Washington Post.
The review appeared in Book World, the Post’s 16-page stand-alone section that includes reviews, news briefs and guest essays.
Author James J. Sheehan, an expert on the history of modern Europe, reviewed Spicer’s book along with another new book about Nazi Germany. Sheehan praised “Hitler’s Priests”as “deeply researched and deeply disturbing.”
Sheehan also noted that as “a priest and member of the Congregation of the Holy Cross, Spicer has an insider’s grasp of the church’s organization and governance. He has combed through an impressive number of diocesan and government archives to assemble a list of 138 ‘brown priests,’ who were either members of the Nazi party or at least active supporters of its program. Spicer’s treatment of ‘Hitler’s priests’ is absolutely convincing.”
NIU Press recognized the scholarly contribution of Spicer’s book early in the publication process.
“We made every effort to try to get the book reviewed in a major news outlet, but one never knows,” said J. Alex Schwartz, NIU Press director. “Because many newspapers are marginalizing or completely eradicating their book review sections, it can be difficult to secure reviews. The Washington Post has maintained a high reputation, and being reviewed within its pages is an accomplishment for anyone in the publishing industry.”
The review can be accessed at www.washingtonpost.com by searching by the book title or the author’s name. Spicer’s book can be purchased through NIU Press by calling (815) 753-1075, by ordering online at www.niupress.niu.edu or by visiting local bookstores.
NIU Press publishes books on a variety of topics in the areas of U.S. history, Russian studies, transportation, religion and regional studies. In fulfilling its broadly educational mission, the press publishes books for inquiring general readers as well as for specialists.